BX  8067  .L873  1918 
Lutheran  Church. 
Liturgy  and  agenda 


f'f7[>UJ^U^L. 


^Uuirherao  CA\uccJn  -Wvvbou*\    *tfn»6 


LITURGY 

and    ^v^ 

k  MAR  12  195 

AGENDA. 


ABRIDGED    EDITION. 


t 


St.  Louis,  Mo. 

coxcordia  publishing  house. 

i&18. 


J 


EDITORS'   NOTE. 


Tn  presenting  our  Liturgy  and  Agenda  in  a  much 
abridged  form,  the  editors  desire  to  meet  the  pastor's 
demand  for  a  pocket  edition.  Accordingly,  only  such 
liturgical  forms  and  prayers  as  the  pastor  in  his  private 
ministrations  and  the  missionary  may  need,  have  been 
reprinted.  Every  organized  congregation  ought  to  own 
a  copy  of  the  complete  Liturgy  and  Agenda,  which,  in 
addition  to  the  forms  here  given,  contains  prayers  and 
forms  for  all  occasions,  such  as,  prayers  for  all  church 
festivals  and  holidays,  prayers  for  parochial  school, 
synodical  and  conference  services,  mission-festival,  a 
minister's  jubilee,  a  teacher's  jubilee,  a  jubilee  of  the 
congregation,  anniversary  of  confirmation,  anniversary 
of  young  people's  and  ladies'  aid  societies,  charities, 
home-finding  society,  home  for  the  aged,  hospital,  gradu- 
ation of  nurses,  home  for  the  feeble-minded;  and  litur- 
gical forms  for  the  installation  of  a  teacher,  installation 
of  church  council,  dedication  of  school,  organ,  bell,  burial- 
ground,  parsonage,  parish  house,  or  dwelling:  the  his- 
tory of  the  Passion  and  Death  of  our  Lord  and  Savior 
Jesus  Christ;  a  table  of  church-festivals  and  of  Scrip- 
ture-lessons and  Psalms  for  every  Sunday;  and  the 
music  for  the  liturgy.    (428  and  57  pp.) 

A  form  which  may  be  used  by  the  pastor  when  visiting 
the  sick  and  dying  —  not  contained  in  the  larger  book  — 
has  for  an  obvious  reason  been  inserted  in  this  pocket 
edition.  A  number  of  blank  pages  have  been  added,  on 
which  the  pastor  may  write  such  additional  forms, 
Scripture-texts,  prayer-,  and  hymns  as  lie  may  choose 
to  use  upon  special  occasions. 


QJablr  of  (Eimtrnta. 


Part  !.      -LITURGY.  eAGB 

The  Order  of  Morning  Service,   or   the   Conimunipn . . . .  3 

Tin    Order  of   Morning  Service.     (Second    Form.)     15 

Order  of   Evening  Service,  or   Vespers    1* 

The   Order   of   Afternoon    or   Evening   Service.     (Second 

Form.  I      -1 

The  Order  of  Early    Service,    or   Matins    -1 

The   Order  of  Confessional  or  Preparatory   Service    ....  25 

( 'ollects   and    Prayers    28 

Special    Intercessions  and   Thanksgivings:  — 

1.  For  a   Woman   after   Childbirth    47 

2.  For   the   Churching  of   Women    48 

3.  For   the   Catechumens     48 

4.  For  the   Communicants    40 

5.  For  Persons  Betrothed    49 

6.  For  the   Sick     50 

7.  At    the   Announcement   of   a   Death    52 

8.  During   a   Vacancy   in   a   Church    53 

0.  In   Time    of   Dearth   and   Famine    53 

10.  In   Time  of   Unseasonable   Weather    53 

11.  In    Time   of   Pestilence    53 

12.  After   a   Great    Disaster    54 

13.  In  Time  of  Insurrection   and   Tumults    34 

14.  In  Time  of  War     54 

15.  In  Time  of  Peace  Restored    55 

Part   II.  —  AGENDA. 
Baptism  :  — 

1.  The   Baptism   of   Infants  :     First   Form    50 

Second   Form.     (Without    Sponsors.)     63 

Emergency  Baptism    65 

2.  Confirmation   of   Lay-Baptism    66 

3.  The   Baptism   of   Adults    68 

Confirmation    ~0 

Marriage  :   First  Form 77 

Second  Form 81 

Anniversary  of  Marriage    84 


VI  TABLE    OF    CONTENTS. 

PAGE 
Lessons  and  Prayers  for  the  Sick  and  the  Dying  :  — 

1.  Afflictions  and  Their   Uses    86 

2.  Repentance  and  Assurance  of  Forgiveness    88 

3.  Patience  under  Suffering  and  Trust  in  God's  Help  90 

4.  Preparation  for  Death,  and  When  the   End  is  at 

Hand    92 

5.  Gratitude  for  Recovery   e 94 

0.  At    the    Sickbed   of   Children    95 

The   Communion   of   the   Sick    97 

The   Burial   of  the   Dead  :  — 

A.  At  the  House    100 

B.  At   the   Church    ., 110 

C.  At  the  Grave    119 

The  Ordination  of   a  Minister    123 

The  Ordination  and   Installation  of  a   Minister    127 

The   Installation   of  a  Pastor    180 

The  Installation  of  a  Teacher    135 

Laying   the   Corner-Stone   of   a   Church    137 

The  Dedication  of  a   Church    140 

Congregational  Meeting   143 


PART    I. 


Liturgy. 


LITUBGY    AND    AGENDA 


®ttr-  GDrorr  of  JHormnjj  &r  rtrir?,  or  tljr  (Slommuntott. 


A  Hymn  of  Invocation  of  the  Holy  Ohost  may  be  sung. 
The  Congregation  shall  rise,  and  the  Minister,  standing  at  the  Altar,  sluill  say: 

In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing  or  sau: 

Amen. 

Then  shall  be  said  the  Confession  op  Sins,  as  here  follotceth: 

The  Confession  of  Sins. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord!  Let  us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart, 
and  confess  our  sins  unto  God,  our  Father,  beseeching  Him  in 
the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  to  grant  us  forgiveness. 

Then,  all  kneeling  or  standing,  shall  be  sung  or  said: 

Minister.    Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord. 
Congregation.    Who  made  heaven  and  earth. 
Minister.     I    said,    I    will    confess    my   transgressions    unto 
the  Lord. 

Congregation.    And  Thou  forgavest  the  iniquity  of  my  sin. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 
Almighty  God,  our  Maker  and  Redeemer,  we  poor  sinners 
confess  unto  Thee  that  we  are  by  nature  sinful  and  unclean,  and 
that  we  have  sinned  against  Thee  by  thought,  word,  and  deed. 
Wherefore  we  flee  for  refuge  to  Thine  infinite  mercy,  seeking 
and  imploring  Thy  grace  for  the  sake  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

The  Congregation  shall  say  with  the  Minister: 

0  most  merciful  God,  who  hast  given  Thine  only-begotten 
Son  to  die  for  us,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  for  Hi3  sake  grant  us 
remission  of  all  our  sins;  and  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  increase  in  us 
true  knowledge  of  Thee  and  of  Thy  will,  and  true  obedience  to 
Thy  Word,  to  the  end  that  by  Thy  grace  we  may  come  to  ever- 
lasting life,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


4  ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,  OR   THE   COMMUNION. 

Then   the  Minister,  standing,  shall  say: 

Almighty  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  hath  had  mercy  upon 
us,  and  hath  given  His  only  Son  to  die  for  us,  and  for  His  sake 
forgiveth  us  all  our  sins.  To  them  that  believe  on  His  name  He 
giveth  power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  and  hath  promised 
them  His  Holy  Spirit.  He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized  shall 
be  saved.     Grant  this,  Lord,  unto  us  all! 

Then  shall  the  Congregation  sing  or  say: 

Amen. 

Then,  all  standing    to    the   close   of   the   Collect,    shall   be   sung   or   said    the 
Introit  for  the  day. 

The  Introit. 

The  Introit  irtth  the  Gloria  Patsi  may  be  sung  by  the  Choir;   or  the  Introit 
may  be  said  by  the  Minister,  and  the  Gloria  Patri  sung  or  said  by  the  Con- 
gregation.    Instead  of  the  Introit  a  Psalm  or  a  Hymn  may  be  used. 

Gloria  Patri. 
Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost:    as  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be, 
world  without  end.    Amen. 

Then  shall  follow   the 

Kyrie. 

The  Ktbib   may   be  sung  or  said   by   the   Minister  and   Congregation,  or   each 

petition  may  be  said  by   the  Minister,  and  sjing  or  said  by   the  Congregation 

in  response. 


Lord,  have  mercy  upon,  us ! 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us ! 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us ! 

Then  shall  be  sung  the  Gloria  in  Excelsis  as  here  followeth.     Instead  of  the 

Gloria  in  Excelsis,  another  Canticle  or  Hymn  of  Praise  may  be  sung,  except 

on  festival  days,  and  when  there  is  a  Communion. 

Gloria  in  Excelsis. 

The  Minister  shall  say: 

Glory  be  to  God  on  high! 

The   Congregation   shall   sing: 

Glory  be  to  God  on  high,  and  on  earth  peace,  good  will 
toward  men.  We  praise  Thee,  we  bless  Thee,  we  worship  Thee, 
we  glorify  Thee,  we  give  thanks  to  Thee  for  Thy  great  glory. 
0  Lord  God,  heavenly  King,  God  the  Father  Almighty. 


ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,   OR   THE   COMMUNION.  5 

0  Lord,  the  only-begotten  Son,  Jesus  Christ;  0  Lord  God, 
Lamb  of  God,  Son  of  the  Father,  that  takest  away  the  sin  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Thou  that  takest  away  the  sin  of 
the  world,  receive  our  prayer.  Thou  that  sittest  at  the  right 
hand  of  God  the  Father,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

For  Thou  only  art  holy;  Thou  only  art  the  Lord;  Thou 
only,  0  Christ,  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  art  most  high  in  the  glory 
of  God  the  Father.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing  or  say: 

And  with  thy  spirit. 

The  Minister  shall  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say  the  Collect  for  the  Day. 

The  Collect. 

The  Collect  ended,  the  Congregation  shall  sing  or  say: 

Amen. 

Then   shall    the   Minister  read   the   Epistle   fob    the   Day.      Other   Scbiptube 

Lessons   may   be  read   before   the  Epistle,    but  the  Epistle  and   Gospel  for 

the    Day    shall   always    be   read,      fhe   Minister   shall   announce    the   Epistle, 

saying: 

The  Epistle  for  (here  he  shall  name  the  day)  is  written  in 
the  chapter  of  ,  beginning  at  the  verse. 

The  Epistle  for  the  Day. 

The  Epistle   ended,  the  Minister  shall  say:    Hebe  endeth   the   Epistle. 
Then  shall  the  Hallelujah  be  sung  or  said,  except  in   the  Passion  season. 

The  Hallelujah. 
Hallelujah ! 

Instead  of  the  simple  Hallelujah,   a  sentence  for  the  Season  of  the  Church 

year   may    be    sung    uith    it;     or    a    Psalm    or    Hymn    may    be   sung    after    the 

Hallelujah. 


The  Hallelujah  and  Sentence, 
for  advent. 
Hallelujah !    Remember,   0   Lord,   Thy   tender   mercies ;    for 
they  have  been  ever  of  old.    Hallelujah ! 


6  ORDER  OF   MORNING   SERVICE,   OR   THE   COMMUNION. 

FOR   THE   EPIPHANY    SEASON. 

Hallelujah !  0  praise  the  Lord,  all  ye  nations ;  and  laud 
Him,  all  ye  people.  For  His  merciful  kindness  is  great  toward 
us ;    and   the  truth  of  the  Lord  ehdureth   forever.    Hallelujah ! 

FOR   THE   PASSION    SEASON. 

Christ  hath  humbled  Himself,  and  become  obedient  unto 
death,  even  the  death  of  the  cross. 

FOR   THE    EASTER   SEASON. 

Hallelujah!  Christ,  our  Passover,  is  sacrificed  for  us.  Halle- 
lujah ! 

FOR    WHITSUNTIDE. 

Hallelujah!  Thou  sendest  forth  Thy  Spirit,  they  are  created; 
and  Thou  renewest  the  face  of  the  earth.     Hallelujah ! 

FROM   TRINITY   TO    ADVENT. 

Hallelujah !  0  Lord,  deal  with  Thy  servant  according  unto 
Thy  mercy;  and  teach  me  Thy  statutes.  I  am  Thy  servant, 
give  me  understanding,  that  I  may  know  Thy  testimonies. 
Hallelujah ! 

Or  this: 

Hallelujah!  Blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  our  fathers;  praise 
Him,  and  highly  exalt  Him  forever.    Hallelujah ! 


Then  shall   the   Minister  announce   the  Gospel    for  the   Day,   saying: 

The  Holy  Gospel  is  written  in  the  chapter  of  St.  

beginning  at  the  verse. 

The   Congregation   may  sing   or  say: 

Glory  be  to  Thee,  0  Lord! 

Then  shall   the  Minister  read 

The  Gospel  for  the  Day. 

The   Gospel   ended,   the  Minister  shall  say:    IIkre   endeth   the    Gospel,   and 

the    Congregation    shall   stand    up,   unless    they    have   stood    at    the    rending    of 

the  Gospel,   and  shall  sing  or  say: 

Praise  be  to  Thee,   0   Christ! 

Then  shall  be  said  or  sung  the  Nicene   Creed  or  the  Apostles'   Creed;     but 
i{   there  be  a  Communion,   the  Nicene   Creed   shall   be  used. 


order  of  morning  service,  or  the  communion.  7 

The  Nicene  Creed. 

I  believe  in  one  God,  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth,  And  of  all  things  visible  and  invisible. 

And  in  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  only-begotten  Son  of 
God.  Begotten  of  His  Father  before  all  worlds,  God  of  God, 
Light  of  Light,  Very  God  of  Very  God,  Begotten,  not  made, 
Being  of  one  substance  with  the  Father,  By  whom  all  things 
were  made;  Who,  for  us  men,  and  for  our  salvation,  came  down 
from  heaven,  And  was  incarnate  by  the  Holy  Ghost  of  the  Virgin 
Mary,  And  was  made  man;  And  was  crucified  also  for  us  under 
Pontius  Pilate;  He  suffered  and  was  buried;  And  the  third  day 
He  rose  again,  according  to  the  Scriptures;  And  ascended  into 
heaven,  And  sitteth  on  the  right  hand  of  the  Father;  And  He 
shall  come  again  with  glory  to  judge  both  the  quick  and  the 
dead;    Whose  kingdom  shall  have  no  end. 

And  I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Lord  and  Giver  of 
Life,  Who  proceedeth  from  the  Father  and  the  Son,  Who  with 
the  Father  and  the  Son  together  is  worshiped  and  glorified,  Who 
spake  by  the  Prophets.  And  I  believe  one  holy  Christian  and 
Apostolic  Church.  I  acknowledge  one  Baptism  for  the  remission 
of  sins;  And  I  look  for  the  Resurrection  of  the  dead;  And  the 
life  of  the  world  to  come.    Amen. 

The  Apostles'  Creed. 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth. 

And  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only-  Son,  our  Lord ;  Who  was 
conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  Born  of  the  Virgin  Mary;  Suffered 
under  Pontius  Pilate,  Was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried ;  He  de- 
scended into  hell ;  The  .third  day  He  rose  again  from  the  dead ; 
He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right  hand  of  God 
the  Father  Almighty;  From  thence  He  shall  come  to  judge  the 
quick  and  the  dead. 

I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost;  The  holy  Christian  Church, 
the  Communion  of  Saints;  The  forgiveness  of  sins;  The  resur- 
rection of  the  body;    And  the  life  everlasting.    Amen. 

Then    mini  a    Hymn   be  sung,  and    the  Minister  shall  go    into   the    pulpit       After 
the  ITymn  shall  fnllov 

The  Sermon. 


8  ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,   OR   THE  COMMUNION. 

The  Sermon    ended,   the  Congregation  standing  up,   the  Minister  shall  say: 

The  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understanding,  keep 
your  hearts  and  minds  through   Christ  Jesus. 

The  Offertory  shall  then  be  sung,  at  the  close  of  which  the  Congregation  shall 
be  seated. 

One   of    the    Offertories    here   following,    or    any    other    suitable    Offertory, 
may    be   used. 

The  Offertory. 
I. 

Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  0  God:  and  renew  a  right 
spirit  within  me. 

Cast  me  not  away  from  Thy  presence:  and  take  not  Thy 
Holy  Spirit  from  me. 

Restore  unto  me  the  joy  of  Thy  salvation:  and  uphold  me 
with  Thy  free  Spirit. 

II. 

The  sacrifices  of  God  are  a  broken  spirit:  a  broken  and 
a  contrite  heart,  0  God,  Thou  wilt  not  despise. 

Do  good  in  Thy  good  pleasure  unto  Zion :  build  Thou  the 
walls  of  Jerusalem. 

Then  shalt  Thou  be  pleased  with  the  sacrifices  of  righteous- 
ness:   with  burnt-offering  and  whole  burnt-offering. 

The  Offerings  shall  be  gathered  and  brought   to  the  Minister,  who  shall  place 
them  on   the  Altar. 

Then  shall   the  Minister  make  mention  of  any  special  Petition,  Intercessions, 

or  Thanksgivings  which  may  have  been  requested.     He  may  also  make  mention 

of  the  death  of  any  member  of  the  Congregation. 

Then   shall   follow   the  General   Prayer.      The  Prayer   here  following   may   be 
used;    or,  if  there  be  no  Communion,  the  Litany,  or  a  selection  from  the  Col- 
lects  and  Prayers,   or  any   other  suitable  prayer. 

The  General  Prayer. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ:  we  give  Thee  thanks  for  all  Thy  goodness  and 
tender  mercies,  especially  for  the  gift  of  Thy  dear  Son,  and  for 
the  revelation  of  Thy  will  and  grace;  and  we  beseech  Thee  so 
to  implant  Thy  Word  in  us  that  in  good  and  honest  hearts  we 
may  keep  it,  and  bring  forth  fruit  by  patient  continuance  in 
well-doing. 

Most  heartily  we  beseech  Thee  so  to  rule  and  govern  Thy 
Church  universal,  with  all  its  pastors  and  ministers,  that  it  may 


ORDER  OF   MORNING   SERVICE,  OR  THE  COMMUNION.  9 

be  preserved  in  the  pure  doctrine  of  Thy  saving  Word,  whereby 
faith  toward  Thee  may  be  strengthened,  and  charity  increased  in 
us  toward  all  mankind. 

Grant  also  health  and  prosperity  to  all  that  are  in  authority. 
especially  to  the  President  [and  Congress]  of  the  United  States, 
the  Governor  [and  Legislature]  of  this  Commonwealth,  and  to 
all  our  Judges  and  Magistrates;  and  endue  them  with  grace  to 
rule  after  Tby  good  pleasure,  to  the  maintenance  of  righteousness 
and  to  the  hindrance  and  punishment  of  wickedness,  that  we  may 
load  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

May  it  please  Thee  also  to  turn  the  hearts  of  our  enemies 
and  adversaries,  that  they  may  cease  their  enmity,  and  be  in- 
clined to  walk  with  us  in  meekness  and  in  peace. 

All  who  are  in  trouble,  want,  sickness,  anguish  of  labor, 
peril  of  death,  or  any  other  adversity,  especially  those  who  are  in 
suffering  for  Thy  name  and  for  Thy  truth's  sake,  comfort,  0  God, 
with  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  they  may  receive  and  acknowledge 
their  afflictions  as  the  manifestation  of  Thy  fatherly*  will. 

And  although  we  have  deserved  Thy  righteous  wratli  and 
manifold  punishments,  yet,  we  entreat  Thee,  0  most  merciful 
Father,  remember  not  the  sins  of  our  youth  nor  our  many  trans- 
gressions, but  out  of  Thine  unspeakable  goodness,  grace,  and 
mercy  defend  us  from  all  harm  and  danger  of  body  and  soul. 
Preserve  us  from  false  and  pernicious  doctrine,  from  war  and 
bloodshed,  from  plague  and  pestilence,  from  all  calamity  by  fire 
and  water,  from  hail  and  tempest,  from  failure  of  harvest  and 
from  famine,  from  anguish  of  heart  and  despair  of  Thy  mercy, 
and  from  an  evil  death.  And  in  every  time  of  trouble  show 
Thvself  a  very  present  Help,  the  Savior  of  all  men.  and  especially 
<>f  them  that  believe. 

Cause  also  the  needful  fruits  of  the  earth  to  prosper,  that 
we  may  enjoy  them  in  due  season.  Give  success  to  the  Christian 
training  of  the  young,  to  all  lawful  occupations  on  land  and  sea. 
and  to  all  pure  arts  and  useful  knowledge:  and  crown  them 
with  Thy  blessing. 

Here  special  Supplications,  Intercessions,  and   Prayers  may  be  made. 

These,  and  whatsoever  other  things  Thou  wouldest  have  us 
ask  of  Thee,  0  God,  vouchsafe  unto  us  for  the  sake  of  the  bitter 
sufferings  aud  death  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thine  only  Son,  our  Lord 
and  Savior,  who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  ever,  one  God.  world  without  end. 


10  ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,   OR   THE  COMMUNION. 

Then  shall  the  Minister,  and  the  Congregation  with  him,  say  the  Lord's  Prayer. 

The  Lord's  Prayer. 
Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven:  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven; 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses, 
as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And  lead  us  not 
into  temptation ;  But  deliver  us  from  evil ;  For  Thine  is  the 
kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory  forever  and  ever     Amen. 

Then  shall  be  sung  a  Hymn. 


If  there  be  no  Communion,  a  Doxology  may  be  sung,  and  the  Minister,  standing 

at  the  Altar,  shall  pronounce  the  Benediction,  after  which   the  Congregation 

shall   offer  silent   prayer. 

The  Benediction. 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious 
unto  thee. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,-  and  give 
thee  peace. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing   or  say: 

Amen. 


Whilst   the  Hymn  is  sung,  the  Minister  shall  go   to   the  Altar,  make  ready   the 

Communion  vessels,  and  prepare  for  the  administration  of  the  Holy  Commdnion. 

The  Hymn   ended,   the   Congregation  shall  rise,  and  stand   to   the   end   of   the 

Agnus   Dei. 

The  Preface. 

The  Minister  shall  say: 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 

The   Congregation  shall  sing   or  say 

And  with   thy  spirit. 

Minister.    Lift  up  your  hearts. 

Congregation.    We  lift  them  up  unto  the  Lord. 

Minister.    Let  us  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  our  God. 

Congregation.    It  is  meet  and  right  so  to  do. 

Minister.  It  is  truly  meet,  right,  and  salutary  that  we  should 
at  all  times  and  in  all  places  give  thanks  unto  Thee,  0  Lord, 
Holy   Fatber,  Almighty,  Everlasting  God. 

Here  shall  follow   the  Proper   Preface,  according   to   the  time,  if  there  be  any 
specially   appointed,   or  else   immediately   shall  folloxo,  Therefore    with 

ANGELS,     etC. 


OBDEB  OF    MORNING   SERVICE,  OR  THE  CoMMLNiON.  11 

Proper  Prefaces. 

for  christmas. 

For  in  the  mystery  of  the  Word  made  flesh,  Thou  hast  given 

us  a  new  revelation  of  Thy  glory,  that,  seeing  Thee  in  the  person 

of  Thy  Son,  we  may  be  drawn  to  the  love  of  those  things  which 

are  not  seen.     Therefore  with  angels,  etc. 

FOR   THE   PASSION   SEASON. 

Who  on  the  tree  of  the  cross  didst  give  salvation  unto  man- 
kind, thai;,  whence  death  arose,  thence  Life  also  might  rise  again ; 
and  that  he  who  by  a  tree  once  overcame  might  likewise  by  a  tree 
be  overcome,  through  Christ,  our  Lord;  through  whom  with 
angels,  etc. 

FOR   THE   EASTER   SEASON. 

But  cliiefly  are  we  bound  to  praise  Thee  for  the  glorious 
Resurrection  of  Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord;  for  He  is  the 
very  Paschal  Lamb,  which  was  offered  for  us,  and  hath  taken 
away  the  sin  of  the  world;  who  by  His  death  hath  destroyed 
death,  and  by  His  rising  to  life  again  hath  restored  to  us  ever- 
lasting life.     Therefore  with  angels,  etc. 

FOR  ASCEN3I0N   DAY. 

Through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord,  who  after  His  Resurrec- 
tion appeared  openly  to  all  His  disciples,  and  in  their  sight  was 
taken  up  into  heaven,  that  He  might  make  us  partakers  of  His 
divine  nature.     Therefore  with  angels,  etc. 

FOR   WHITSUNDAY. 

Through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Lord  and  Savior, 
who  ascended  above  the  heavens,  and,  sitting  at  Thy  right  hand, 
poured  out  on  this  day  the  Holy  Spirit,  as  He  had  promised, 
upon  the  chosen  disciples;  whereat  the  whole  earth  rejoices  with 
exceeding  joy.     Therefore  with  angels,  etc. 

FOR   THE   FESTIVAL   OF   THE   TRINITY. 

Who  with  Thine  only  begotten  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost  art 
one  God,  one  Lord.  And  in  the  confession  of  the  only  true  God 
we  worship  the  Trinity  in  Person,  and  the  Unity  in  Substance, 
of  Majesty  coequal.     Therefore  with  angels,  etc. 


\'i  ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,  OR  THE  COMMUNION. 

After   the  Preface  shall  follow   immediately: 

Therefore  with  angels  and  archangels,  and  with  all  the  com- 
pany of  heaven,  we  laud  and  magnify  Thy  glorious  name,  ever- 
more praising  Thee  and  saying: 

Then   shall   be  said   or  sung   the 

Sanctus. 
Holy,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  of  Sahaoth !     Heaven  and  earth 
are  full  of  Thy  glory.     Hosanna  in  the  highest. 

Blessed  is  He  that  cometh  in  the  name  of  the  Lord. 
Hosanna  in  the  highest. 

Then  may  the  Minister  give  this  Exhortation. 

The  Exhortation. 

Dearly  beloved !  Forasmuch  as  we  purpose  to  come  to  the 
Holy  Supper  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  it  becometh  us  diligently 
to  examine  ourselves,  as  St.  Paul  exhorteth  us.  For  this  Holy 
Sacrament  hath  been  instituted  for  the  special  comfort  and 
strengthening  of  those  who  humbly  confess  their  sins,  and  who 
hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness. 

But  if  we  thus  examine  ourselves,  we  shall  find  nothing  in 
us  but  only  sin  and  death,  from  which  we  can  in  no  wise  set 
ourselves  free.  Therefore  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath  had  mercy 
upon  us,  and  hath  taken  upon  Himself  our  nature,  that  so  He 
might  fulfil  for  us  the  whole  will  and  Law  of  God,  and  for  us 
and  for  our  deliverance  suffer  death  and  all  that  we  by  our  sins 
have  deserved.  And  to  the  end  that  we  should  the  more  con- 
fidently believe  this,  and  be  strengthened  by  our  faith  in  a  cheer- 
ful obedience  to  His  holy  will,  He  hath  instituted  the  Holy  Sac- 
rament of  His  Supper,  in  which  He  feedeth  us  with  His  Body, 
and  giveth  us  to  drink  of  His  Blood. 

Therefore,  whoso  eatcth  of  this  bread,  and  drinketh  of  this 
cup,  firmly  believing  the  words  of  Christ,  dwelleth  in  Christ,  and 
Christ  in  him,  and  hath  eternal  life. 

We  should  also  do  this'  in  remembrance  of  Him,  showing 
His  death,  that  He  was  delivered  for  our  offenses,  and  raised 
again  for  our  justification,  and,  rendering  unto  Him  most  hearty 
thanks  for  the  same,  take  up  our  cross  and  follow  Him,  and, 
according  to  His  commandment,  love  one  another  even  as  He 
hath  loved  us.  For  we  are  all  one  bread  and  one  body,  even  as 
we  are  all  partakers  of  this  one  bread,  and  drink  of  this  one  cup. 


OP    MORNING    -  k;:\  l<  i  .   OR   THE  <  OM  Ml  13 

the    Minister,    turning    t»    the    Altar,   ylnili 

Let  is  pray. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven:  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;   Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven  ; 

Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread ;  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses, 
as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And  lead  us  not 
into  temptation ;  But  deliver  us  from  evil ;  For  Thine  is  the 
kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory  forever  and  ever. 

Then  shall  the  Congregation  sina  or  say: 

Amen. 

Then   shall  the  Minister  say: 

Our    Lord    Jesus    Christ,    in    the    night    in      (a)  Here  he  shall 
which    He    was    betrayed,    took    bread;  (a)    and      Kuh    the  Bread 
when  He  had  given. thanks,  He  brake  it  and  gave      in  hig  hand- 
it  to  His  disciples,  saying:    Take,  eat;    this  is  My  Body,  f  which 
is  given  for  you.     This  do  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

Alter  the  same  manner,  also.  He  took  the  (b)  IIcre  he  skaU 
cup,(6)  when  He  had  supped,  and  when  He  had  his  hand. 
given  thanks,  He  gave  it  to  them,  saying:  Drink  ye  all  of  it; 
this  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  My  Blood,  j  which  is  shed 
for  you,  and  for  many,  for  the  remission  of  sins.  This  do,  as 
oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

Then   shall  the  Minister  say: 

The  peace  of  the  Lord  be  with  you  alway! 

Then   "hull    he  sung   or  said   the  Agnus   Dei,   and   the  distribution    shall    begin. 

Agnus  Dei. 

0  Christ,  Thou  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sin  of 
the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us! 

0  Christ,  Thou  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sin  of 
the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us! 

0  Christ,  Thou  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sin  of 
the  world,  grant  us  Thy  peace!    Amen. 

When  the  Minister  giveth  Vie  Dread,  he  shall  say: 

Take  and  eat ;  this  is  the  true  Body  of  Christ,  given  for  thee. 

When  he  giveth   the  Cup,  he  shall  say: 

Take  and  drink;  this  is  the  true  Blood  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment, shed  for  thy  sins. 


1  I  ORDER   OF    MORNING   SERVICE,   OR   THE   COMMUNION. 

In  dismissing   the  Communicants,  the  Minister  may  say: 

The  Body  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  and  His  precious  Blood 
strengthen  and  preserve  you  in  the  true  faith  unto  everlasting  life ! 

//    the   consecrated    Bread   or   Wine   be   spent    before   all   have,  communed,   the 
Minister  shall  consecrate  more,  saying  aloud  so   much  of   the  words  of  institu- 
tion  as   pertaineth  to   the  element   to   be  consecrated. 

When  all  have  communed,   the  Minister  shall  reverently  cover  what   remaineth 
of   the  Bread  and   Wine. 

Then,  all  standing,  may   be  sung  or  said   the 

Nunc  Dimittis. 

'  Lord,  now  lettest  Thou  Thy  servant  depart  in  peace  accord- 
ing to  Thy  Word: 

For  mine  eyes  have  seen  Thy  salvation:  which  Thou  hast 
prepared  before  the  face  of  all  people; 

A  light  to  lighten  the  Gentiles:  and  the  glory  of  Thy 
people  Israel. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be :  world 
without  end.    Amen. 

Then  shall  be  said: 

The  Thanksgiving. 

Minister. 

0  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  for  He  is  good. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing  or  say: 

And  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

Minister. 

We  give  thanks  to  Thee,  Almighty  God,  that  Thou  hast  re- 
freshed us  through  this  salutary  gift;  and  we  beseech  Thee  that 
of  Thy  mercy  Thou  wouldst  strengthen  us  through  the  same  in 
faith  towards  Thee  and  in  fervent  love  toward  one  another, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Lord,  who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost  ever,  one  God,  world 
without  end. 

The   Congregation  shall  sing   or  say: 

Amen. 


THE  ORMR   <>r    HORNING   SERVICE.  15 

Then  may  be  sung  or  said   the 

Benedicamus. 
Minister.    The  Lord  be  with  you. 
Congregation.    And  with  thy  spirit. 
Minister.    Bless  we  the  Lord. 
Congregation.    Thanks  be  to  God. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say  the  Benediction,  as  here  follotceth,  or  he  map  say 

the  words   2  Cob.  13,  14. 

After  the  Benediction   the  Congregation  should  offer  silent  prayer. 

The  Benediction. 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious 
unto  thee. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,  and  give 
thee  peace. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing   or  say: 

Amen. 


uty?  (JDrorr  of  HHflrmraj  &mitrr. 

(Second  Form.) 


The  service  is  opened  icith  the  singing  of  a  Hymn  of  grace  and  mercy  (Kyrie). 

The   Congregation    shall    rise,    and    the    Minister,   standing    at    the    Altar,    shall 

chant   or  say: 

Glory  be  to  God  on  high ! 

The   Congregation   shall   respond    by  singing: 

All  glory  be  to  God  on  high,  etc. 

The  Minister,  again   facing   the  Congregation   at   the  close   of   the   Hymn,   shall 
chant   or   say: 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 

The    Congregation   shall    respond' 

And  with  thy  spirit. 

Then   the  Minister,  facing   the   Altar,  shall  chant   or  say  some  suitable   versiele, 
or  antiphon.   tiru   on   festival   day*,   e.g.,   on   Advent: 

Minister.    Prepare  ye  the  way  of  the  Lord.    Hallelujah! 
Congregation.    Make  His  paths  straight.    Hallelujah! 
Minister.    Hosanna  to  the  Son  of  David.    Hallelujah! 
Congregation.    Hosanna  in  the  highest.    Hallelujah! 


1G  THE  ORDER  OF   MORNIA'G^ERVICE. 

Then    the    Minister,   still   facing    the   Altar,   shall   chant    or   say: 

Let  us  pray. 

Then  shall   the  Minister  chant  or  say  «  suitable  Collect. 

The  Collect. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
dost  govern  and  sanctify  the  whole  Christian  Church :  hear  our 
prayers  for  all  members  of  the  same,  and  mercifully  grant  that 
by  Thy  grace  they  may  serve  Thee  in  true  faith,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord,  who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee 
and  the  Holy  Ghost  ever,  one  God,  world  without  end. 

The  Collect  ended,  the  Congregation  shall  respond  with: 

Amen. 

Then   shall   the  Minister  read    the  Epistle   for   the   Day.      The   Minister   shall 
announce   the  Epistle,   saying: 

Let  us  hear  with  devout  attention  the  Epistle  for  the  day. 

The   Epistle   Lesson   for  is   written   in   the   chapter 

of  ,  beginning  at  the  verse. 

The  Epistle  ended,  the  Minister  shall  withdraw,  and  a  Hymn  be  sung. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  return   to  the  Altar  and,  turning  to   the  Congregation, 

shall  say: 

Let  us  hear  with  devout  attention  the  Gospel  for  the  day. 

The  Gospel  Lesson  for  is  written  in  the  chapter  of 

the  Gospel  according  to  ,  beginning  at  the  verse. 

Then  may   be  sung  "We  All  Believe   in  One  True  God,"  and   the  Minister 
shall  go  into  the  pulpit.     After  the  Hymn  shall  follow 

The  Sermon. 

The  Sermon  ended,  the  Minister  shall  read  the  General  Confession  and  Abso 
LOTION,  saying: 

Having  heard  •  the  Word  of  God,  let  us  now  humble  our- 
selves before  the  supreme  majesty  of  God  and  make  a  confession 
of  our  sins,  saying: 

0  almighty  God,  merciful  Father,  I,  a  poor,  miserable  sin- 
ner, confess  unto  Thee  all  my  sins  and  iniquities  with  which 
I  have  ever  offended  Thee,  and  justly  deserved  Thy  temporal 
and  eternal  punishment.  But  I  am  heartily  sorry  for  them,  and 
sincerely  repent  of  them,  and  I  pray  Thee,  of  Thy  boundless 
mercy  and  for  the  sake  of  the  holy,  innocent,  bitter  sufferings 
and  death  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  to  be  gracious  and 
merciful  to  me,  a  poor,  sinful  being.    Amen. 


THE   ORDER   OF    MORX1NO   SERVICE.  17 

Upon  this  your  confession,  I,  by  virtue  of  my  office,  as 
a  called  and  ordained  servant  of  the  Word,  announce  the  grace 
of  God  unto  all  of  you,  who  do  heartily  repent  of  your  sins,  be- 
lieve on  Jesus  Christ,  and  sincerely  and  earnestly  purpose  by  the 
assistance  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost  henceforth  to  amend  your  sin- 
ful lives,  and  in  the  stead  and  by  the  command  of  my  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  I  forgive  you  all  your  sins,  in  the  name  of  God  f  the 
Father,  God  f  the  Son,  and  God  f  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

Then  shall  follow 

The  General  Prayer. 

After    the    General    Prayer,    special    Intercessions    and    Thanksgivings    may    be 
made,  as   occasion   may   require. 

Then,  after   making   the  announcements   for   the  day,   the   Minister  shall  say 

The  Lord's  Prayer  and  the  Votum. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven :  Hallowed  be  Thy  name ; 
Thy  kingdom  come ;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven ; 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses, 
as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And  lead  us  not 
into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For  Thine  is  the 
kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory  forever  and  ever.    Amen. 

The  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understanding,  keep 
your  hearts  and  minds  through  Christ  Jesus. 

Then   shall  be  sung  a  Hymn. 

If   there  be   no   Communion,  the  Minister,  facing  the  Altar,  shall  chant   or  say 
a    suitable. 

Anttphon  and  Collect. 

Then    the    Minister,    facing    the    Congregation,    shall    chant    or    say 

The  Benediction. 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious 
unto  thee. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,  and  give 
thee  peace. 

The  Congregation   shall  respond   with: 

Amen. 

After   the   Benediction,   the  Congregation   shall  sing   a   closing  stanza,  and   con- 
clude the  service   with   silent  prayer. 

LITURGY    AND    AGENDA.  2 


18  ORDER   OF   EVENING   SKRVICE,   OR  VESPERS. 


A  Hymn  of  Invocation  of  the  Holy  Qhost  or  another  Hymn  may  be  sung. 

Then  thall  be  sung  or  said  rcsponsively  the  Vebsicle  with  the  Gloria  Patri, 
as  here  followeth,  all  standing   to   the  end   of   the   Psalm. 

Versicle.    Make  haste,  0  God,  to  deliver  me. 

Answer.    Make  haste  to  help  me,  0  Lord. 

Grory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be :  world 
without  end.    Amen. 

Hallelujah ! 

During  the  Passion  Season   the  Hallelujah  shall  be  omitted. 

The  Psalm. 

Then  shall  be  sung  or  said  one  or  more  Psalms.     At  the  end  of  the  Psalm  the 
Gloria   Patri   shall   be  sung.     An   Antiphon    may   be   used   with   each   Psalm. 

The  Lesson. 

The  Scripture   Lessons   shall   then   be  read,  and  after  each   Lesson    may   be 
sung  or  said: 

But  Thou,  0  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Answer.    Thanks  be  to  God. 

After  the  Lessons  a  Responsory   may  be  sung. 

Then  may  be  sung  a  Hymn. 

Then  may  follow  a   Sermon,  after  wtiicb   the  Offerings  may   be  gathered. 

Then  shall    be  sung 

The  Hymn. 

Then,  all  standing,  may  be  sung  or  said  this  Versicle.     But  on  Festival  days, 
a  special  Versicle  may  be  used. 

Versicle.   Let  my  prayers  be  set  forth  before  Thee  as  inceuse : 
Answer     And  the   lifting  up  of   my   hands  as  the  evening 
sacrifice. 

The  Canticle. 

Then  shall  be  sung  the 

Magnificat.    (St.  Luke  1.) 

My  soul  doth  magnify  the  Lord:  and  my  spirit  hath  re- 
joiced in  God,  my  Savior. 

For  He  hath  regarded :    the  low  estate  of  His  handmaiden. 

For,  behold,  from  henceforth:  all  generations  shall  call  me 
blessed. 


ORDER  OF  EVENING  SERVICE.  «'R  VESPERS.  10 

For  He  that  is  mighty  hath  done  to  mo  great  things:  and 
holy  is  His  name. 

And  His  mercy  is  on  them  that  fear  Him:  from  generation 
to  generation. 

He  hath  showed  strength  with  His  arm :  He  hath  scattered 
the  proud  in  the  imagination  of  their  hearts. 

He  hath  put  down  the  mighty  from  their  seats :  and  exalted 
them  of  low  degree. 

He  hath  filled  the  hungry  with  good  things:  and  the  rich 
He  hath  sent  empty  away. 

He  hath  holpen  His  servant  Israel  in  remembrance  of  His 
mercy:  as  He  spake  to  our  fathers,  to  Abraham,  and  to  his  seed, 
forever. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost ; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be:  world 
without  end.    Amen. 

Or  the 

Nunc  Dimittis.    (St.  Luke  2.) 

Lord,  now  lettest  Thou  Thy  servant  depart  in  peace :  accord- 
ing to  Thy  word: 

For  mine  eyes  nave  seen  Thy  salvation :  which  Thou  hast 
prepared  before  the  face  of  all  people; 

A  light  to  lighten  the  Gentiles :  and  the  glory  of  Thy 
people   Israel. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son :  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost ; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be :  world 
without  end.    Amen. 

An    Antiphon   may   be  sung   with    the  Canticle. 

The  Prayer. 

Then  shall  be  said  the  Prayers  here  following,  or  the  Suffrages,   the  Litant, 
or   other   prayers. 

The  Prayer. 
Lord,   have   mercy   upon   us. 

Lord,   have    mercy    upon    us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,   have   mercy   upon   us. 

Lord,   hare    mercy   upon    us. 


20  ORDER   OF   EVENING    SERVICE,   OR   VESPERS. 

Then  all  shall  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven:  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come ;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven , 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses, 
as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And  lead  us  not 
into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For  Thine  is  the 
kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory  forever  and  ever.    Amen. 

Salutation.    The  Lord  be  with  you. 
Answer.    And  with  thy  spirit. 

Let  us  pray. 

Then  shall  be  said  the  Collect  for  the  day:  the  Collect  for  the  Sunday  is 
said  throughout  the  week  following  until  Friday,  but  on  Saturday  the  Collect 
for  the  following  Sunday  is  said.  Then  may  be  said  any  other  Collects  and 
after  that  this  Collect  for  Peace.    A  Versicle  may  be  used  with  the  Collect. 

0  God,  from  whom  all  holy  desires,  all  good  counsels,  and 
all  just  works  do  proceed:  give  unto  Thy  servants  that  peace 
which  the  world  cannot  give,  that  our  hearts  may  be  set  to  obey 
Thy  commandments,  and  also  that  by  Thee,  we,  being  defended 
from  the  fear  of  our  enemies,  may  pass  our  time  in  rest  and 
quietness;  through  the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  Savior. 
Amen. 

Then  may  be  sung  or  said  the 

Benedicamus. 

Bless  we  the  Lord. 

Answer.    Thanks  be  to  God. 

The  service  may  end  with  the  Benedicamus  ;.  or  a  Closing  Hymn  may  be  sung, 
after  which  may  be-  said: 

The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God, 
and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  you  all. 
Amen. 

At  the  close  of  the  service  silent  prayer  should  be  offered. 


ORDER   OF   AFTERNOON    OR    BVEK'KC    SERVICE  21 

<Jhr  (§rdrr  of  Afternoon  or  turning  £>mrirr. 

(Second  Form.) 


A    suitable  Hymn   may  be  sung. 

Minister.    The  Lord   be  with  you. 
Congregation.    And  with  thy  spirit. 

Then  shall  follow 

The  Versicle  (.Antiphon)  and  Collect. 

Then  shall  be  read 

The  Scripture  Lesson. 

After  Hit  siiujin<)  of  a  Hymn  shall  follow  the  Sermon,  and  after  it  a  suitable 
Prayer. 

Then  shall  be  sung  another  Hymn,  which   is   to  be  followed  by  an  Antiphon, 
a  Collect,  and  the  Benediction 

Then,  after  the  singing  of  a  Doxology,  the  service  shall  close  with  silent  prayer. 


tlhi>  ©run*  of  £arh*  £>mrin\  or  Matins. 


.4    Hymn  of  Invocation   of  the  Holy  Ghost  or  another  Hymn   may  be  sung. 

Then  shall   be  sung  o>    said   the  Versicles  here  following,  all  standing   to   the 
end  of  the  Venite. 

Versicle.    0  Lord,  open  Thou  my  lips. 

Answer.    And  my  mouth  shall  show   forth  Thy  praise. 

Versicle.    Make  haste,  0  God,  to  deliver  me. 

Answer.    Make  haste  to  help  me,  0  Lord. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:    and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost ; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be :    world 
without  end.    Amen. 

Hallelujah  ! 

During   the  Passion  season   the  Hallelujah   shall  be  omitted. 

ill  follow  the  Invitatory  with  the  Venite.     On  Festival  Days  a  special 
Invitatort  may  be  used. 

The  Invitatory. 
Minister.    0  come,  let  us  worship  the  Lord: 
Congr,gation.    For  He  is  our  Maker. 


22  order  of  early  service,  or  matins. 

Venite  Exultemus.    (Ps.  95.) 

0  come,  let  us  sing  unto  the  Lord:    let  us  make  a  joyful 
noise  to  the  Rock  of  our  salvation. 

Let  us   come  before   His   presence   with   thanksgiving:     and 
make  a  joyful  noise  unto  Him  with  psalms. 

For   the   Lord   is   a   great    God :    and   a   great    King   above 
all   gods. 

In  His  hand  are  the  deep  places  of  the  earth:    the  strength 
of  the  hills  is  His  also. 

The  sea  is  His,  and  He  made  it:    and  His  hands  formed 
the  dry  land. 

0  come,  let  us  worship  and  bow  down:    let  us  kneel  before 
the  Lord,  our  Maker. 

For  He  is  our  God:    and  we  are  the  people  of  His  pasture 
and  the  sheep  of  His  hand. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:    and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost ; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be:    world 
without  end.    Amen. 

The  Hymn. 

The   Hymn    shall   then   be  sung. 

The  Psalm. 

Then,  all  standing  to  the  end  of  the  Psalm,  shall  be  sung  or  said  one  or  more 

Psalms.      At    the   end   of   the   Psalm    the   Gloria    Patri    shall    be   tung.     An 

Antiphon   marj   be   used   with   each   Psalm. 

The  Lesson. 

The  Scriptl'rf.  Lessons  shall  then  be  read.     After  each  Lesson   may  be  sung 
or  said: 

But   Thou,   0   Lord,   have  mercy  upon  us. 
Answer.    Thanks  be  to   God 

After  the  Lessons  a  Responsory  may  be  sung. 
A    brief   Exhortation,    or  Sermon,    may   then   follow. 

The  Canticle. 

The  Congregation   shall  stand   and   sing  the  Te  Beum    Laudamus  or  the   Bene- 
dictl's.      An    Antiphon    may    be   sung    with    the    Benedictus. 

Te  Deum  Laudamus. 
We    praise    Thee,    0    God :     we    acknowledge    Thee    to    be 
the   Lord. 

All    the   earth    doth    worship    Thee:     the   Father   everlasting. 


ORDER  OK  EARLY  SERVICE,  OR  MATINS.  23 

To  Thee  all  angels  cry  aloud :  the  heavens  and  all  the 
powers   therein. 

To  Thee  Cherubim  and  Seraphim:  continually  do  cry, 
Holy,  holy,  holy :    Lord  God  of  Sabaoth ; 

Heaven  and  earth  are  full  of  the  majesty :    of  Thy  glory. 

The  glorious  company   of   the   Apostles:    praise  Thee. 

The  goodly   fellowship   of   the   Prophets:    praise   Thee. 

The  noble  army  of  Martyrs:    praise   Thee. 

The  holy  Church  throughout  all  the  world:  doth  ac- 
knowledge  Thee; 

The   Father:    of  an  infinite   Majesty; 

Thine  adorable,   true:    and   only   Son; 

Also  the  Holy.  Ghost:    the   Comforter. 

Thou  art  the  King  of  Glory:    0  Christ. 

Thou   art   the   everlasting   Son :    of   the   Father. 

When  Thou  tookest  upon  Thee  to  deliver  man :  Thou  didst 
humble  Thyself  to  be  born  of  a   Virgin. 

When  Thou  hadst  overcome  the  sharpness  of  death :  Thou 
didst  open  the  kingdom  of  heaven  to  all  believers. 

Thou  sittest  at  the  right  hand  of  God:  in  the  glory  of 
the   Father. 

We  believe   that   Thou   shalt   come:    to   be   our  Judge. 

We  therefore  pray  Thee,  help  Thy  servants:  whom  Thou 
hast  redeemed  with   Thy  precious   blood. 

Make  them  to  be  numbered  with  Thy  saints:  in  glory  ever- 
lasting. 

0   Lord,  save  Thy  people :    and  bless  Thine  heritage. 

Govern  them:    and   lift  them  up   forever. 

Day   by   day:    we  magnify  Thee. 

And  we  worship  Thy  name:-  ever,   world  without   end. 

Vouchsafe,  0  Lord:    to  keap  us  this  day  without  sin. 

0  Lord,  have  mercy   upon  us:    have   mercy  upon   us. 

0  Lord,  let  Thy  mercy  be  upon  us :    as  our  trust  is  in  Thee. 

0  Lord,  in  Thee  have  I  trusted:  let  me  never  be  con- 
founded.   Amen. 

Or   the 

Benedictus.  (St.  Luke -1.) 

Blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  Israel:  for  He  hath  visited 
and   redeemed   His   people; 

And  hath  raised  up  a  horn  of  salvation  for  us:  in  the 
house  of  His  servant  David ; 


JJ4  ORDER   OF   EARLY   SERVICE,   OR   MATINS. 

As  He  spake  by  the  mouth  of  His  holy  prophets:  which 
have   been  since  the  world   began; 

That  we  should  be  saved  from  our  enemies:  and  from  the 
hand  of  all  that  hate  us; 

To  perform  the  mercy  promised  to  our  fathers:  and  to 
remember   His   holy  covenant; 

The  oath  which  He  '  sware  to  our  father  Abraham :  that 
He   would  grant  unto   us; 

That  we,  being  delivered  out  of  the  hand  of  our  enemies : 
might  serve  Him  without   fear> 

In  holiness  and  righteousness  before  Him:  all  the  days  of 
our  life. 

And  thou,  child,  shalt  be  called  the  Prophet  of  the  Highest : 
for  thou  shalt  go  before  the  face  of  the  Lord  to  prepare  His  ways ; 

To  give  knowledge  of  salvation  unto  His  people:  by  the 
remission  of  their  sins, 

Through  the  tender  mercy  of  our  God:  whereby  the  Day- 
spring  from  on  high  hath   visited  us ; 

To  give  light  to  them  that  sit  in  darkness  and  in  the 
shadow  of  death:    to  guide  our  feet  in  the  way  of  peace. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son:  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost ; 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be:  world 
without  end.    Amen. 

The  Prayer. 

Then  shall  be  said  the  Prayers  here  following,  or  the  Soffraoes,   the  Litant. 
or  other  prayers. 

Lord,   have   mercy   upon   us. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,   have   mercy   upon   us. 

Lord,   have    mercy   upon   us. 

Then  all  shall  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven :  Hallowed  be  Thy  name ; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven ;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread ;  And  forgive  us 
our   trespasses,    as    we    forgive    those    who    trespass    against    us; 


ORDER   Of   CONFESSIONAL  <>i:    PREPARATORY   SERVICE.  25 

And  lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil; 
For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory  for- 
ever  and  ever.    Amen. 

One  or  more  Collects  may  be  used,  with  the  Salutation,  which  may  be  pre- 
ceded by  a  Versicle.     After  each  Collect  the  Congregation  shall  sing  or  say: 

Amen. 

Then  may  be  sung  or  said   the  Benedicamus   with    the   Salutation. 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 

Answer.    And  with  thy  spirit. 

Benedicamus. 

Bless  we  the  Lord. 
Answer.   Thanks  be  to  God. 

The  service  may  end  with  the  Benedicamus,  or  a  closing  Hymn  may  be  sung, 
after    which    may   be  laid: 

The  grace  of  the  Lord-  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God, 
and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  you  all. 
Amen.. 

At  the  close  of  the  service  silent  prayer  should  be  offered. 


uJhr  (§rb?v  of  (HmtfrHflumal  or  grrparatmuj  £>?rmre. 


A    Hymn   of  Repentance  may   be  sung. 
Then  shall  follow  a  Prayer  ex  cord6  or  one  of  the  following  Prayers. 

1. 

Search  me,  0  God,  and  know  my  heart:  try  me,  and  know 
my  thoughts;  and  see  if  there  be  any  wicked  way  in  me,  and 
lead  me  in  the  way  everlasting.    Amen. 


Almighty  and  everlasting  Father,  the  God  of  all  grace,  who 
forgivest  the  sins  of  the  penitent,  we  beseech  Thee,  create  in 
us  new  and  contrite  hearts,  that,  deploring  our  transgressions 
and  acknowledging  our  wretchedness,  we  may  obtain  perfect  re- 
mission,  through   Jesus   Christ,   our   Lord.     Amen 


2(3  ORDER    OF   CONFESSIONAL  OR   PREPARATORY   SERVICE. 

3. 
0  holy  and  righteous  God,  who  settest  our  iniquities  before 
Thee,  our  secret  sins  in  the  light  of  Thy  countenance :  we  have 
done  evil  in  Thy  sight,  our  conscience  condemns  us,  our  sin 
catnot  be  denied.  Grant,  therefore,  we  beseech  Thee,  that  we 
may  not  seek  to  hide  ourselves  from  Thee,  but  make  a  sincere 
confession  of  our  sins.  And  do  Thou,  according  to  Thy 
promise,  forgive  us  our  trespasses  and  cleanse  us  from  all  un- 
righteousness, for  the  sake  of  Thy  dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our 
only    Savior.     Amen. 

4. 
Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  who  lovest  to  show 
mercy,  we  beseech  Thee  so  to  rule  and  guide  us  by  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  that  we  may  not  make  light  of  our  sins  and  lapse  into 
security,  but  know  and  heartily  deplore  them,  and  in  true  faith 
obtain  pardon  and  peace,  to  the  end  that,  dying  daily  unto  sin, 
we  may  live  in  newness  of  life,  and  ever  serve  and  please  Thee, 
through   Jesus   Christ,   Thy   Son,  our  Lord  and   Savior.    Amen. 

5. 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  alone  art  able  to  make  us  meet 
for  a  salutary  eating  and  drinking  of  Thy  true  body  and  blood 
in  the  Holy  Supper,  we  pray  Thee,  enable  us  to  partake  wor- 
thily of  Thy  holy  Sacrament.  Grant  us  knowledge  of  our  sins, 
that  we  may  be  truly  penitent;  grant  us  knowledge  of  Thy 
grace,  that  by  faith  we  may  draw  nigh  unto  Thee;  and  work 
in  our  hearts  a  sincere  resolve  to  serve  Thee  in  holiness  and 
pureness  of  living.  Have  mercy  upon  us  for  Thy  name's  sake. 
Amen, 

6. 

0  eternal,  holy,  and  righteous  God,  we  beseech  Thee,  grant 
us  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  work  in  us  godly  sorrow  for  our  sins 
and  a  living  faith  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ;  cause  us  to  turn 
with  sincere  Tepentance  from  our  sinful  ways  unto  Thee;  and 
renew  us  daily  by  Thy  grace,  that  we  may  live  according  to 
Thy  holy  will,  worship  Thee  in  true  holiness,  and  be  made  meet 
to  inherit  Thine  everlasting  kingdom,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 


ORDER  OF   CONCESSIONAL   OH    PREPARATORY    SERVICE.  27 


0  Lord  God,  who  dcspisest  not  a  contrite  heart,  and  i'or- 
gettest  the  sin  and  wickedness  of  a  sinner  in  whatsoever  hour 
he  doth  mourn  and  lament  his  old  manner  of  living:  giant 
unto  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  true  contrition  of  heart,  that  we  may 
vehemently  despise  our  sinful  life  past,  and  wholly  be  converted 
unto  Thee,  by  our  Savior  and  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

The  Minister  shall   then   deliver  the  PREPARATORY    ADDRESS. 
Then   the  Minister  shall  say: 

Having  now  heard  the  Word  of  God,  let  us  kneel  and  make 
i  onfession  of  our  sins: 

0  almighty  God,  merciful  Father,  I,  a  poor,  miserable  sin- 
ner, confess  unto  Thee  all  my  sins  and  iniquities  with  which 
1  have  ever  offended  Thee  and  justly  deserved  Thy  temporal 
and  eternal  punishment.  But  I  am  heartily  sorry  for  them  and 
sincerely  repent  of  them,  and  I  pray  Thee,  of  Thy  boundless 
mercy  and  for  the  sake  of  the  holy,  innocent,  bitter  sufferings 
and  death  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  to  be  gracious 
and   merciful  to  me,  a  poor  sinful  being.    Amen. 

Then,    white   the  persons   confessing   continue   kneeling,    the   Minister   shall    rise 
and    say: 

And  now  I  ask  you  before  God,  Is  this  the  sincere  con- 
fession of  all  of  you,  that  you  heartily  repent  of  your  sins, 
believe  on  Jesus  Christ,  and  sincerely  and  earnestly  purpose  by 
the  assistance  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost  henceforth  to  amend  your 
sinful   life?     Then  declare  so  by  saying,   Yes. 

Answer:    Yes. 

Then    the  Minister  shall  pronounce   the  Absolution  as   foll'/n  - 

Upon  this  your  confession,  1,  by  virtue  of  my  office,  as 
a  called  and  ordained  servant  of  the  Word,  announce  the  grace 
of  God  unto  all  of  you,  and  in  the  stead  and  by  the  command 
of  my  Lord  Jesus  Christ  I  forgive  you  all  your  sins  in  the 
name  of  God  f  the  Father,  God  f  tne  S°n>  ari(l  God  t  the 
Holy   Ghost.    Amen. 

The  service  may   be  closed    with   a    Humn. 


28  COLLECTS   AND   PRAYERS.. 


i. 

Grant  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  almighty  God,  a  steadfast  faith 
in  Jesus  Christ,  a  cheerful  hope  in  Thy  mercy,  and  a  sincere 
love  to  Thee  and  to  all  our  fellow-men;  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord.    Amen.  . 

2, 

0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  give  Thee  thanks  that 
of  Thy  great  goodness  and  mercy  Thou  didst  suffer  Thine  only- 
begotten  Son  to  become  incarnate,  and  to  redeem  us  from  sin 
and  everlasting  death;  and  we  beseech  Thee,  enlighten  our  hearts 
by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  evermore  yield  Thee  unfeigned 
thanks  for  this  Thy  grace,  and  may  comfort  ourselves  with  the 
same  in  all  time  of  tribulation  and  temptation;  through  the 
same  Thy  dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

3. 
Almighty  God,  who  hast  given  us  commandment  to  pray 
for  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  most  heartily  we  beseech  Thee, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Advocate,  to  grant  us  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
that  He  may  quicken  our  hearts  by  Thy  saving  Word,  and  lead 
us  into  all  truth,  that  He  may  guide,  instruct,  enlighten,  govern, 
comfort,  and  sanctify  us  unto  everlasting  life;  through  the  same, 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

4. 

Send,  we  beseech  Thee,  almighty  God,  Thy  Holy  Spirit  into 
our  hearts,  that  He  may  rule  and  direct  us  according  to  Thy 
will,  comfort  us  in  all  our  temptations  and  afflictions,  defend  us 
from  all  error,  and  lead  us  into  all  truth,  that  we,  being  stead- 
fast in  the  faith,  may  increase  in  love  and  in  all  good  works, 
and  in  the  end  obtain  everlasting  life;  through  Jesus  Christ, 
Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    A  men. 

5. 

Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  who,  of  Thy  tender 
love  toward  us  sinners,  hast  given  us  Thy  Son,  that,  believing 
on  Him,  we  might  have  everlasting  life:  grant  us,  we  beseech 
Thee,  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  continue  steadfast  in  this 
faith  to  the  end,  and  may  come  to  everlasting  life,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


(.'MM  T>   AND    PKAYEKS.  29 


Almighty  and  everlasting  Qodj  who,  by  Thy  Son.  has! 
promised  us  forgiveness  of  sins  and  everlasting  life:  we  beseech 
Thee  so  to  rule  and  govern  our  hearts  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
in  our  daily  need,  and  especially  in  all  nine  of  temptation,  we 
may  seek  help  from  Him,  and  by  a  true  and  lively  faith  m  Thy 
Word  obtain  the  same;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


0  Lord   God,    Heavenly    Father,   we   beseech   Thee,   let   Thy 

Holy  Spirit  dwell  in  us,  that  He  may  enlighten  and  lead  us 
into  all  truth,  and  evermore  defend  us  from  all  adversities; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

8. 

0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who  hast  given  Thine  only 
Son  to  die  for  our  sins,  and  to  rise  again  for  our  justification: 
quicken  us,  Ave  heseech  Thee,  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  unto  newness 
of  life,  that  through  the  power  of  His  resurrection  we  may  dwell 
with  Christ  forever;  through  the  same,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen.  v 

9. 

Almighty  and  ever-living  God,  who  makest  us  both  to  will 
and  to  do  those  things  which  are  good,  and  acceptable  unto  Thy 
Divine  Majesty:  let  Thy  Fatherly  hand,  we  beseech  Thee,  ever 
be  over  us;  let  Thy  Holy  Spirit  ever  be  with  us;  and  so  lead 
us  in  the  knowledge  and  obedience  of  Thy  Word  that  in  the 
end  we  may  obtain  everlasting  life;  through  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.    Amen. 

FOR  THE  CHURCH 
10. 
Grant,  we  beseech  Thee,  almighty  God,  unto  Thy  Church 
Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  the  wisdom  which  cometh  down  from 
above,  that  Thy  Word  as  becometh  it,  may  not  !><•  bound,  hut 
have  free  course  and  be  preached  to  the  joy  and  edifying  of 
Christ's  holy  people,  that  in  steadfast  faith  we  may  serve  Thee, 
and  in  the  confession  of  Thy  name  abide  unto  the  end;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


30  COLLECTS  AND  PRAYERS. 

11. 

Merciful  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee  to  cast  the  bright  beams 
of  Thy  light  upon  Thy  Church,  that,  being  instructed  by  the 
doctrine  of  the  blessed  Apostles,  it  may  so  walk  in  the  light  of 
Thy  truth  that  it  may  at  length  attain  to  the  light  of  ever- 
lasting life;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

12. 

0  God,  our  Protector,  behold,  and  look  upon  the  face  of 
Thine  Anointed,  who  hath  given  Himself  for  the  redemption 
of  all,  and  grant  that  from  the  rising  of  the  sun  to  the  going 
down ■  thereof  Thy  name  may  be  great  among  the  Gentiles,  and 
that  in  every  place,  sacrifice  and  a  pure  offering  may  be  made 
unto  Thy  name;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

13. 
0  Lord,  favorably  receive  the  prayers  of  Thy  Church,  that, 
being  delivered  from  all  adversity  and  error,  it  may  serve  Thee 
in  safety  and  freedom;    and  grant  us  Thy  peace  in  our  time; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

14. 
For  the  Children  of  the  Church. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  dost  will  that  not  one 
of  these  little  ones  should  perish,  and  hast  sent  Thine  only  Son 
to  seek  and  to  save  that  which  was  lost,  and  through  Him  hast 
said,  Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid 
them  not;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God:  most  heartily 
we  beseech  Thee  so  to  bless  and  govern  the  children  of  Thy 
Church,  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  they  may  grow  in  grace  and 
in  the  knowledge  of  Thy  Word;  protect  and  defend  them  against 
all  danger  and  harm,  giving  Thy  holy  angels  charge  over  them; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

15. 
For  the  Ministers  of  the  Word. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  alone  doest  great  won- 
ders, send  down  upon  Thy  ministers,  and  upon  the  congrega- 
tions committed  to  their  charge,  the  healthful  Spirit  of  Thy 
grace;  and,  that  they  may  truly  please  Thee,  pour  upon  them 
the  continual  dew  of  Thy  blessing;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 


COLLE)  !-«   AXD   ri:\\  ERS. 


31 


16. 
Almighty  and  gracious  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord 

who  hasl  commanded  us  to  pray  that  Thou  wouldest  send 
forth  laborers  into  Thy  harvest  :  of  Thine  infinite  mercy  { 
true  teachers  and  ministers  of  Thy  Word,  and  put  Thy  saying 
Gospel  in  their  hearts  and  on  their  lips,  that  they  may  truly 
fulfil  Thy  command,  and  preach  nothing  contrary  to  Thy  holy 
Word,  that  we,  being  warned,  instructed,  nurtured,  comforted, 
and  strengthened  by  Thy  heavenly  Word,  may  do  those  things 
which  are  well-pleasing  to  Thee,  and  profitable  to  us;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

17. 
0  almighty  God,  who  by  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  didst  give 
to  Thy  holy  Apostles  many  excellent  gifts,  and  commandedsi  tfiem 
earnestly  to  feed  Thy  flock:  make,  we  beseech  Thee,  all  pastors 
diligently  to  preach  Thy  holy  Word,  and  the  people  obediently 
to  follow  the  same,  that  they  may  receive  the  crown  of  ever- 
lasting glory;    through  Jesus   Christ,   our  Lord.    Amen. 

18. 
For  the  Church  in  Its  Conflicts. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  wilt  have  all  men  to 
be  saved,  and  to  come  to  the  knowledge  of  the  truth :  we  be- 
seech Thy  glorious  Majesty,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  and 
Savior,  impart  the  grace  and  help  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  all 
ministers  of  Thy  Word,  that  they  may  purely  teach  it  to  the 
saving  of  men;  bring  to  naught,  by  Thine  almighty  power  and 
unsearchable  wisdom,  all  the  counsels  of  those  who  hate  Thy 
Word,  and  who,  by  corrupt  teaching  or  with  violent  hands,  would 
destroy  it.  and  enlighten  them  with -the  knowledge  of  Thy  glory, 
that  we,  leading  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life,  may,  by  a  pure  faith, 
learn  the  riches  of  Thy  heavenly  grace,  and  in  holiness  and 
righteousness  serve  Thee,  the  only  true  God;  through  Jesus 
Christ,   our  Lord.    Amen. 

19. 
For  Those  Who  Have  Erred. 

Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  whose  property  it  is 
always  to  have  mercy,  we  most  earnestly  beseech  Thee  to  risil 
with   Thy   Fatherly   correction   all   such   as   have   erred  and   gone 


32 


COLLECTS    AM)    PRAYERS. 


astray  from  the  truth  of  Thy  holy  Word,  and  to  bring  them, 
to  a  due  sense  of  their  error,  that  they  may  again  with  hearty 
faith  receive  and  hold  fast  Thine  unchangeable  truth;  through 
Jesus   Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

20. 

Almighty,  merciful,  and  gracious  God  and  Father,  with  our 
whole  heart  we  beseech  Thee  for  all  who  have  forsaken  the 
Christian  faith,  all  who  have  wandered  from  any  portion  thereof, 
or  arc  in  doubt  or  temptation  through  the  corrupters  of  Thy 
Word,  that  Thou  wouldest  visit  them  as  a  Father,  reveal  unto 
them  their  error,  and  bring  them  back  from  their  wanderings, 
that  they,  in  singleness  of  heart,  taking  pleasure  alone  in  the 
pure  truth  of  Thy  Word,  may  be  made  wise  thereby  unto  ever- 
lasting life  through  faith  in  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord. 
Allien. 

21. 
For  Unity. 

0  God,  who  restorest  to  the  right  way  them  that  err,  who 
gatherest  them  that  are  scattered,  and  preservest  them  that  are 
gathered :  of  Thy  tender  mercy,  we  beseech  Thee,  pour  upon 
Thy  Christian  people  the  grace  of  unity,  that,  all  schisms  being 
healed,  Thy  flock,  united  to  the  true  Shepherd  of  Thy  Church, 
may  worthily  serve  Thee;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Ann  u 

22. 
For  the  Removal  of  Schism. 
Bring  to  naught,  O  Christ,  the  schisms  of  heresy,  which 
seek  to  subvert  Thy  Truth,  that,  as  Thou  art  acknowledged  in 
heaven  and  in  earth  as  one- and  the  same  Lord,  so  Thy  people, 
gathered  from  all  nations,  may  serve  Thee  in  unity  of  faith. 
Amen. 

23. 
For  the  Jews. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  lovest  to  show  mere)-, 
hear  the  prayers  which  we  offer  unto  Thee  for  Thine  ancient 
people,  that,  acknowledging  Jesus  Christ,  who  is  the  Light  of 
Truth,  they  may  be  delivered  from  their  darkness;  through  the 
same,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


COL1  E<  TS    \M>   PRAYERS.  33 

84. 

For  the  Heathen. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  desirest  not  the  death 
of  a  sinner,  but  wouldest  have  all  men  to  repent  and  live: 
hear  our  prayers  for  the  heathen;  take  away  iniquity  from  their 
hearts,  and  turn  them  from  their  idols  unto  the  living  and  true 
God  and  to  Thine  only  Son;  and  gather  them  into  Thy  holy 
Church,  to  the  glory  of  Thy  name;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

FOR  THE  CIVIL  AUTHORITIES. 
'!  5 . 
0  merciful  Father  in  heaven,  who  holdest  in  Thy  hand  all 
the  might  of  man,  and  who  hast  ordained  the  powers  that  be  for 
the  punishment  of  evil-doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that  do 
well,  and  of  whom  is  all  rule  and  authority  in  the  kingdoms  of 
the  world :  we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  graciously  regard  Thy  ser- 
vants, the  President  of  the  United  States,  the  Governor  of  this 
Commonwealth,  our  Judges  and  Magistrates,  and  all  the  rulers 
of  the  earth.  May  all  that  receive  the  sword,  as  Thy  ministers, 
bear  it  according  to  Thy  commandment.  Enlighten  and  defend 
them  by  Thy  name,  0  God.  Grant  them  wisdom  and  under- 
standing, that  under  their  peaceable  governance  Thy  people  may 
be  guarded  and  directed  in  righteousness,  quietness,  and  unity. 
Protect  and  prolong  their  liv<s.  0  God  of  our  salvation,  that 
we,  with  them,  may  show  forth  the  praise  of  Thy  name;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amni. 

26. 

For  Our  Enemies. 

Forgive,  we  beseech  Thee,  0  Lord,  our  enemies,  and  them 
that  despitefully  use  us,  and  so  change  their  hearts  that  they 
may  walk  with  us  in  meekness  and  peace;  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord.    A  men. 

27. 

0  almighty,  everlasting  God,  who,  through  Thine  only  Son, 
our  blessed  Lord,  hast  commanded  us  to  love  our  enemies,  to  do 
good  to  them  that  hate  us.  and  to  pray  for  them  that  perse- 
cute us:    we  earnestly  beseech  Thee  that  by  Thy  gracious  visita- 

1  I  rCBGY   AND   AGENDA.  3 


34  COLLECTS  AND  PRAYERS. 

tion  they  may  be  led  to  true  repentance,  and  may  have  the  same 
love,  and  be  of  one  accord,  and  of  one  mind  and  heart  with  us 
and  with  Thy  whole  Church;  through  the  same,  Thy  dear  Son, 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

28. 
In  Time  of  National  Calamity. 
0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  humbly  confess  unto  Thee 
that  by  our  evil-doing  and  continual  disobedience  we  have  de- 
served these  Thy  chastisements;  but  we  earnestly  beseech  Thee, 
for  Thy  name's  sake,  to  spare  us;  restrain  the  harmful  power 
of  the  enemy,  and  succor  Thy  suffering  people,  that  Thy  Word 
may  be  declared  faithfully  and  without  hindrance,  and  that  we, 
amending  our  sinful  lives,  may  walk  obediently  to  Thy  holy  com- 
mandments;   through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

29. 

Look  mercifully,  0  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee,  on  the  affliction 
of  Thy  people,  and  let  not  our  sins  destroy  us,  but  let  Thine 
almighty  mercy  save  us;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

30. 

Most  loving  and  gracious  Lord  God,  who  for  our  many 
grievous  sins  art  pleased  sorely  to  chasten  us,  we  flee  to  Thy 
tender  and  Fatherly  compassion  alone,  beseeching  Thee,  that,  as 
a  father  pitieth  his  children,  Thou  wouldest  pity  us  miserable 
sinners'.  Turn  away  Thy  righteous  wrath,  and  give  us  not  over 
to  deserved  death,  but  deliver  us,  that  we  may  now  and  ever- 
more praise  Thee,  0  gracious  God  and  Father,  who  desirest  not 
the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  rather  that  he  may  turn  from  bis 
wickedness  and  live;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

31. 
For  Prisoners. 

Almighty  God,  who  didst  bring  the  Apostle  Peter  forth  out 
of  prison,  have  mercy  upon  all  who  are  suffering  imprisonment, 
and  set  them  free  from  their  bonds,  that  we  may  rejoice  in 
their  deliverance,  and  continually  give  praise  to  Tbee ;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


COLLECTS   AM)   PBAYBRS.  35 

32. 

For  Pkace  and  Quietness. 
0  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee  mercifully  to  hoar  the  prayers  of 
Thy  Church,  that  we,  being  delivered  from  all  adversities,  and 
serving  Thee  with  a  quiet   mind,  may  enjoy   Thy  peace  all  the 
days  of  our  life;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

IX  TIME  OF  AFFLICTION  AND  DISTRESS. 
33. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  the  Consolation  of  the  sor- 
rowful and  the  Strength  of  the  weak,  may  the  prayers  of  them 
that  in  any  tribulation  or  distress  cry  unto  Thee  graciously  come 
before  Thee,  so  that  in  all  their  necessities  they  may  mark  and 
receive  Thy  manifold  help  and  comfort ;  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

34. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  who  hast  appointed  us  to 
endure  sufferings  and  death  with  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  before 
we  enter  with  Him  into  eternal  glory:  grant  us  grace  at  all 
times  to  subject  ourselves  to  Thy  holy  will,  and  to  continue 
steadfast  in  the  true  faith  unto  the  end  of  our  lives,  and  at  all 
times  to  find  peace  and  joy  in  the  blessed  hope  of  the  resurrec- 
tion of  the  dead,  and  of  the  glory  of  the  world  to  come;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

35. 
Almighty  God,  cast  not  away  Thy  people  who  cry  unto  Thee 
in  their  tribulation,  but  for  the  glory  of  Thy  name  be  pleased  to 
succor  the  afflicted;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord     Amen. 

36. 
For  the  Sick. 
Almighty,  everlasting  God,  the  eternal  Salvation  of  them 
that  believe:  hear  our  prayers  in  behalf  of  Thy  servants  who 
are  sick,  for  whom  we  implore  the  aid  of  Thy  mercy,  that,  being 
restored  to  health,  they  may  reader  thanks  to  Thee  in  Thv 
Church;     through    Jesus   Christ,   our    Lord      Amen. 


36  COLLECTS  AND  PRAYERS. 

37. 

0  Lord,  look  down  from  heaven,  behold,  visit,  and  relieve 
Thy  servant  (s),  for  whom  we  offer  our  supplications;  look  upon 
I  he  in  with  the  eyes  of  Thy  mercy;  give  them  comfort  and  sure 
confidence  in  Thee,  defend  them  from  the  danger  of  the  enemy, 
and  keep  them,  in  perpetual  peace  and  safety;  through  Jesus 
Christ,,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

38. 
For  Mothers. 

0  almighty,  everlasting  God  and  Father,  Creator  of  all 
tilings,  who  by  Thy  grace,  through  Thy  Son,  our  Lord,  who 
hath  redeemed  us  from  the  flesh  and  sin,  makest  the  anguish  of 
our  human  birth  a  holy  and  salutary  cross :  we  pray  Thee,  0  gra- 
cious Father,  Lord  and  God,  that  Thou  wouldest  preserve  and 
guard  the  work  of  Thine  own  hand.  Forsake  not  them  who  cry 
to  Thee  in  sore  travail,  but  deliver  them  out.  of  all  their  pains, 
to  their  joy  and  to  the  glory  of  Thy  goodness;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

39. 
In  Time  of  Great  Sickness. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  we, 
Thine  erring  children,  humbly  confess  unto  Thee  that  we  have 
justly  deserved  the  chastening  which  for  our  sins  Thou  hast  sent 
upon  us;  but  we  entreat  Thee,  of  Thy  boundless  goodness,  to 
grant  us  true  repentance,  graciously  to  forgive  our  sins,  to  re- 
move from  us,  or  to  lighten,  our  merited  punishment,  and  so 
to  strengthen  us  by  Thy  grace  that  as  obedient  children  we  may 
be  subject  to  Thy  will,  and  bear  our  afflictions  in  patience; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

40. 
In  Time  of  Drought. 
O  God,  most  merciful  Father,  we  beseech  Thee  to  open  the 
windows  of  heaven,  and  to  send  a  fruitful  rain  upon  us,  to  revive 
the  earth,  and  to  refresh  the  fruits  thereof,  for  all  things  droop 
and  wither;  graciously  hear  our  prayer  in  this  our  necessity, 
that  we  may  praise  and  glorify  Thy  name  forever  and  ever; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


COLLECTS   AND   PRAYERS.  37 

41. 
IN'    TlMK    OF    rxsKAsoNABI.K    WEATHER. 

o  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who  art  gracious  and  merci- 
ful, and  bast  promised  that  Thou  wilt  hear  us  when  we  call 
upon  Thee  in  our  troubles:  We  heseech  Thee,  look  not  upon  our 
-  and  evil  doings,  but  upon  our  necessities,  and  according  to 
Thy  mercy  send  us  such  seasonable  weather  that  the  earth  may 
in  due  time  yield  her  increase,  that  by  Thy  goodness  we  may 
receive  our  daily  bread,  and  learn  to  know  Thee  as  a  merciful 
God,  and  evermore  give  thanks  to  Thee  for  Thy  goodness ;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

THANKSGIVING. 

42, 
0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  from  whom  without  ceasing 
we  receive  exceeding  abundantly  all  good  gifts,  and  who  daily  of 
Thy  pure  grace  guardest  us  against  all  evil:  grant  us,  we  be- 
Thee,  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that,  acknowledging  with  our  whole 
heart  all  this  Thy  goodness,  we  may  now  and  evermore  thank 
and  praise  Thy  loving-kindness  and  tender  mercy;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

43. 
Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  whose  mercies  are  new 
unto  us*  every  morning,  and  who,  though  we  have  in  no  wise 
deserved  Thy  goodness,  dost  abundantly  provide  for  all  our  wants 
of  body  and  soul:  give  us,  we  pray  Thee,  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
we  may  heartily  acknowledge  Thy  merciful  goodness  toward  us, 
give  thanks  for  all  Thy  benefits,  and  serve  Thee  in  willing  obe- 
dience;   through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Awen, 

44. 
Almighty  and  most  merciful.God,  who  in  Thy  Fatherly  wis- 
dom hast  chastened  us  on  account  of  our  sins,  that  we  might 
not  continue  in  impenitence  and  vain  confidence,  and  thus  perish 
with  the  ungodly:  in  the  midst  of  wrath  Thou  hast  remembered 
mercy,  and  bast  graciously  delivered  us  out  of  our  affliction.  We 
give  Thee,  therefore,  most  hearty  thanks  and  praise,  that  Thou 
bast  turned  away  from  us  Thy  just   anger,  and   shown   Thyself 


38  COLLECTS  AND  PRAYERS. 

favorable  toward  us,  Thine  unworthy  servants.  Bless  the  Lord, 
0  my  soul;  and  all  that  is  within  me,  bless  His  holy  name. 
Bless  the  Lord,  0  my  soul,  and  forget  not  all  His  benefits. 
Thou,  Lord,  art  merciful  and  gracious,  slow  to  anger,  and  plen- 
teous in  mercy.  Glory  be  to  Thee,  0  God,  forever;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

15. 
Glory  be  to  Thee,  0  God  Most  Holy;  glory  be  to  Thee, 
0  God  Most  High;  glory  be  to  Thee,  0  King  of  heaven  and 
earth,  who,  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children,  pitiest  us.  Fill  us 
with  joy  and  gladness  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  that,  when  Thou  shalt 
render  to  every  man  according  to  his  works,  we  may  be  found 
acceptable  before  Thee,  through  Him  who  hath  redeemed  us  from 
the  shame  and  curse  of  sin,  even  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

FOR  SPECIAL  GIFTS  AND  GRACES. 

46. 
For  Protection  during  the  Day. 
0  Lord,  our  Heavenly  Father,  almighty  and  everlasting  God, 
who  hast  safely  brought  us  to  the  beginning  of  this  day:  defend 
us  in  the  same  with  Thy  mighty  power,  and  grant  that  this  day 
we  fall  into  no  sin,  neither  run  into  any  kind  of  danger,  but  that 
all  our  doings,  being  ordered  by  Thy  governance,  may  be.righteous 
in  Thy  sight;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

47. 

For  Protection  during  the  Night. 

Lighten  our  darkness,  we  beseech  Thee,   0   Lord;    and   by 

Thy  great  mercy  defend  us  from  all  perils  and  dangers  of  this 

night;    for  the  love  of  Thy  only  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

Amen. 

For  Grace  to  Use  Our  Gifts. 
0  Lord  God  Almighty,  who  dost  endue  Thy  servants  with 
divers  and  singular  gifts  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  leave  us  not,  we 
beseech  Thee,  destitute  of  Thy  manifold  gifts,  nor  yet  of  grace, 
to  use  them  always  to  Thy  honor  and  glory;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


<  i'I.I.KCTS    AM)    1'KAVKKS.  ;,, 

49. 
For  Grace  to  Receive  the  Word. 
Blessed  Lord,  who  hast  caused  all  Holy  Scriptures  t<>  be 
written  for  our  learning,  grant  that  we  may  in  such  wise  hear 
them,  read,  mark,  learn,  and  inwardly  digest  them,  that  by 
patience  and  comfort  of  Thy  Holy  Word  we  may  embrace,  and 
ever  hold  fast,  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life,  which  Thou 
hast  given  us  in  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

50. 

For  Grace  to  he  Led  into  All  Truth. 

Enlighten  our  minds,  we  beseech  Thee,  0  God,  by  the  Spirit 

which  proceedeth  from  Thee,  that,  as  Thy  Son  hath  promised, 

we   may   be   led    into   all    truth ;    through    the    same,    our    Lord 

Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

51. 
For  Spiritual  Renewal. 
Almighty  God,  who  hast  given  us  Thine  only-begotten  Son  to 
take  our  nature  upon  Him,  grant  that  we,  being  regenerate,  and 
made  Thy  children  by  adoption  and  grace,  may  daily  be  re- 
newed by  Thy  Holy  Spirit;  through  the  same,  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.    Amen. 

52. 
For  Pen  it  ex  ce. 
Merciful  Father,  give  us  grace  that  we  may  never  presume 
.to  sin;  but  if  at  any  time  we  offend  Thy  divine  majesty,  may 
we  truly  repent  and  lament  our  offense,  and  by  a  lively  faith 
obtain  remission  of  all  our  sins,  solely  through  the  merits  of 
Thy  Son,  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

53. 
For  Pardon. 
Hear,  we  beseech   Thee,    0   Lord,   the  prayer  of  Thy   sup- 
pliant?, and  spare  those  who  confess  their  sins  unto  Thee,  that 
Thou  mayest  bestow  upon  us  both  pardon   and  peace;    through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

54. 

For  Deliverance  from  Sin. 

We   beseech    Thee,   0   Lord,   in   Thy  clemency   to   show   us 

Thine   unspeakable   mercy,   that   Thou   mayest   both   set   us   free 

from  our  sins,  and   rescue  us  from  the  punishments   which   for 

our  sins   we   deserve;    through   Jesus   Christ,   our   Lord.     Amen. 


40  COLLECTS   AND    PRAYERS. 

55. 

For  Grace  to  Do  God's"  Will. 
Almighty  God,  give  us  grace  that  we  may  cast  away  the 
works  of  darkness,  and  put  upon  us  the  armor  of  light,  now  in 
the  time  of  this  mortal  life,  in  which  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ 
came  to  visit  us  in  great  humility,  that  in  the  last  day,  when 
He  shall  come  again  in  His  glorious  majesty  to  judge  hoth  the 
quick  and  the  dead,  we  may  rise  to  the  life  immortal ;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

56. 
For  Grace  to  Love  and  Serve  God. 
0  God,  who,  through  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  dost 
pour  the  gifts  of  charity  into  the  hearts  of  Thy  faithful  people, 
grant  unto  Thy  servants  health  both  of  mind  and  body,  that  they 
may  love  Thee  with  their  whole  strength,  and  with  their  whole 
heart  perform  those  things  which  are  pleasing  unto  Thee;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

57. 
For  Aid  against  Temptation. 
0  God,  who  justifiest  the  ungodly,  and  who  desirest  not  the 
death  of  the  sinner,  we  humbly  implore  Thy  majesty,  that  Thou 
wouldest  graciously  assist,  by  Thy  heavenly  aid,  and  evermore 
shield  with  Thy  protection,  Thy  servants  who  trust  in  Thy  mercy,, 
that  they  may  be  separated  by  no  temptations  from  Thee,  and, 
without  ceasing,  may  serve  Thee,  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

58. 

For  Faith. 
Almighty  and  ever-living  God,  who  hast  given  to  them  that 
believe  exceeding  great  and  precious  promises,  grant  us  so  per- 
fectly, and  without  all  doubt,  to  believe  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ, 
that  our  faith  in  Thy  sight  may  never  be  reproved.  Hear  us, 
0  Lord,  through  the  same  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

59. 
For  Divine  Guidance  and  Help. 
Direct  us,  0  Lord,  in  all  our  doings,  with  Thy  most  gra- 
cious favor,  and  further  us  with  Thy  continual  help,  that  in  all 


COLLECTS    AND    PRAYERS.  %  .)  \ 

our  works,  begun,  continued,  and  ended  in  Thee,  we  may  glorify 
Thy  holy  nam.',  and  finally,  by  Thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting 
life;    through   Jesus   Christ,   our   Lord,    Amen. 

GO. 
<>  almighty  and  everlasting  God,  vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee, 
to  direct,  sanctity,  and  govern  both  our  hearts  and  bodies  in  the 
ways  of  Thy  laws  and  in  the  works  of  Thy  commandments, 
that  through  Thy  most  mighty  protection,  both  here  and  ever, 
we  may  be  preserved  in  body  an<l  in  s<>ul ;  through  our  Lord 
and  Savior  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

61, 
Fob  Spiritual  Illumikatiox. 
Grant,  we  beseech  Thee,  almighty  Cod.  that  the  brightness 
of  Thy  glory  may  shine  forth  upon  us,  and  that  the  light  of 
Thy  light  by  the  illumination  of  the  Holy  Spirit  may  stablish 
the  hearts  of  all  that  have  been  born  anew  by  Thy  grace;  through 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

62. 
For  Likeness  to  Christ. 
Almighty  God,  who  hast  given  Thine  only  Son  to  be  unto 
us  both  a  sacrifice  for  sin  and  also  an  ensample  of  godly  life, 
uriv.'  us  grace  that  we  may  always  most  thankfully  receive  that 
His  inestimable  benefit,  and  also  daily  endeavor  ourselves  to  fol- 
low the  blessed  steps  of  His  most  holy  life;  through  the  same 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.   Amen. 

63. 
For  a  Right  Knowledge  of  Christ. 
0  almighty  God,  whom  to  know  is  everlasting  life,  giant 
us  perfectly  to  know  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  to  be  the  Way,  the 
Truth,  and  the  Life,  that,  following  His  steps,  we  may  stead- 
fastly walk  in  the  way  that  leadeth  to  eternal  life,  through 
the  same  Thy  Son.  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

64. 

For  the  Holy  Spirit. 

0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who  by  the  blessed  light  of 

Thy  divine  Word  hast  led  us  to  the  knowledge  of  Thv  Son,  we 

most   heartily  beseech  Thee  so  to  replenish  us  with  the  grace  of 


42  COLLECTS  AND  PRAYERS. 

Thy  Holy  Spirit  that  we  may  ever  walk  in  the  light  of  Thy 
truth,  and,  rejoicing  with  sure  confidence  in  Christ,  our  Savior, 
may  in  the  end  be  brought  unto  everlasting  salvation;  through' 
the  same  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  of  Thy  great  mercy  in 
Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  dost  grant  us  forgiveness  of  sin,  and  all 
things  pertaining  to  life  and  godliness:  grant  us,  we  beseech 
Thee,  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  He  may  so  rule  our  hearts,  bhai 
we,  being  ever  mindful  of  Thy  Fatherly  mercy,  may  strive  to 
mortify  the  flesh,  and  to  overcome  the  world,  and,  serving  Thee 
in  holiness  and  pureness  of  living,  may  give  Thee  continual 
thanks  for  all  Thy  goodness;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Sun. 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

66. 
For  Purity. 

Almighty  God,  unto  whom  all  hearts  are  open,  all  desires 
known,  and  from  whom  no  secrets  are  hid,  cleanse  the  thoughts 
of  our  hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we 
may  perfectly  love  Thee,  and  worthily  magnify  Thy  holy  name; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

6Y. 

For  Tnnocency  of  Life. 
0  God,  whose  strength  is  made  perfect  in  weakness,  mortify 
and  kill  all  vices  in  us,  and  so  strengthen  us  by  Thy  grace  that 
by  the  innocency  of  our  lives  and  the  constancy  of  our  faith, 
even  unto  death,  we  may  glorify  Thy  holy  name;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    Aiken. 

■  G8. 
For  Love  to  God. 
0  God,  who  makest  all  things  to  work  together  for  good  to 
them  that  love  Thee,  pour  into  our  hearts  such  steadfast  love 
toward  Thee  that  the  pure  desires  whi<||i  by  Thy  Spirit  have 
been  stirred  up  in  us  may  not  be  turned  aside  by  any  temp- 
tation;   through   Jesus   Christ,  our   Lord.    Amen. 


COLLECTS    AND    PRWERS. 


!  : 


69. 

Fob  Chabity. 

0    Lord,   who  hast   taught    us   that    all   our   doings    without 

charity  are  nothing  worth,  send  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  pour  into 
our  hearts  that  most  excellent  gift  of  charity,  the  very  bond  of 
peace  and  all  virtues,  without  which,  whosoever  liveth,  is  counted 
dead  before  Thee.  Grant  this  for  Thine  only  Son  Jesus  Christ's 
sake.    Amen. 

70. 
For  Humility 

0  God,  who  resistest  the  proud,  and  givest  grace  to  the 
humble,  grant  unto  us  true  humility,  after  the  likeness  in  which 
Thine  only  Son  hath  revealed  it  in  Himself,  that  we  may  never 
be  lifted  up  and  provoke  Thy  wrath,  but  in  all  lowliness  be  made 
partakers  of  the  gifts  of  Thy  grace;  through  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

71 
For  Patience. 

0  God,  who  by  the  meek  endurance  of  Thine  only-begotten 
Son  didst  beat  down  the  pride  of  the  old  enemy,  help  us,  we 
beseech  Thee,  rightly  to  treasure  in  our  hearts  what  our  Lord 
hath  of  His  goodness  borne  for  our  sakes,  that  after  His  example 
we  may  bear  with  patience  whatsoever  things  are  adverse  to  us; 
through  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

72. 

For  a  Happy  Death. 

Confirm,  we  beseech  Thee,  almighty  God,  Thine  unworthy  ser- 

•vants  in  Thy  grace,  that  in  the  hour  of  our  death  the  adversary 

may  not  prevail  against  us,  but  that  we  may  be  found  worthy  of 

everlasting  life;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

73. 
Fob  the  Biss6edn£88  of  Heaven. 

Almighty,  everlasting  God,  who  didst  give  Thine  only  Son 
to  be  a  High  Priest  of  good  things  to  come:  hereafter  grant 
unto  us,  Thine  unworthy  servants,  to  have  our  share  in  the 
company  of  the  blessed;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


4-1  COLLECTS   AND   PRAYERS. 

7L 

For  Peace. 
0  God,  who  art  the  Author  of  peace  and  Lover  of  concord, 
la  knowledge  of  whom  standetli  our  eternal  life,  whose  service 
is  perfect  freedom:  defend  us,  Thy  humble  servants,  in  all 
assaults  of  our  enemies,  that  we,  surely  trusting  in  Thy  de- 
fense, may  nbt  fear  the  power  of  any  adversaries,  through  the 
might  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

FOR  AN  ANSWER  TO  PRAYER. 

75; 

Almighty  God,  who  hast  given  us  grace  at  this  time  with 
one  accord  to  make  our  common  supplications  unto  Thee,  and 
dost  promise  that,  when  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in 
Thy  name,  Thou  wilt  grant  their  requests :  fulfil  now,  0  Lord, 
the  desires  and  petitions  of  Thy  servants,  as  may  be  most  ex- 
pedient for  them,  granting  us  in  this  world  knowledge  of  Thy 
truth,  and  in  the  world  to  come  life  everlasting.    Amen. 

70. 
Almighty  God,  the  Fountain  of  all  wisdom,  who  knowest 
our  necessities  before  we  ask,  and  our  ignorance  in  asking:  we 
beseech  Thee  to  have  compassion  upon  our  infirmities;  and  those 
things  which  for  our  unworthiness  we  dare  not,  and  for  our  blind- 
ness we  cannot  ask,  vouchsafe  to  give  us,  for  the  worthiness  of 
Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

77. 
Almighty  God,  who  hast  promised  to  hear  the  petitions  of 
those  who  ask  in  Thy  Son's  name,  we  beseech  Thee  mercifully 
to  incline  Thine  ears  to  us  who  have  now  made  our  prayers 
and  supplications  unto  Thee;  and  grant  that  those  things  -which 
we  have  faithfully  asked  according  to  Thy  will  may  effectually 
be  obtained,  to  the  relief  of  our  necessity  and  to  the  setting 
forth   of  Thy  glory;    through  Jesus   Christ,   our   Lord.    Amen. 


COLLECTS  AND  PRAYEKS.  45 


MISSION  FKSTIVAT, 


<>  Lord  God  Almighty,  mercifully  grant  that  we,  who  know 
now   by  faith,  may  with  uur  whole  heart  believe  in  Him, 

our  only  Savior,  serve  Him,  and  steadfastly  confess  and  glorify 
Him  before  all  men,  making  known  Thy  saving  health  among 
the  nations,  that  He  may  see  of  the  travail  of  His  soul  and  be 
satisfied,  to  whom,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  honor  and 
world  without  end.     Amen. 

Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that  of  Thine 
infinite  mercy  Thou  hast  sent  Thine  only-begotten  Son  into  the 
world  as  the  true  Light  of  men ;  and  we  beseech  Thee,  shed 
abroad  Thy  light  and  Thy  truth  upon  those  who  "are  sitting  in 
the  region  and  shadow  of  death;  let  the  knowledge  of  Thy  sal- 
vation he  increased,  and  subdue  the  nations  to  Thy  grace,  to  the 
praise  of  Thy  holy  name;  through  Thy  Son,  our  Lord,  who 
liveth,  etc. 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  earnest  to  seek  and  to  save  that 
which  was  lost,  we  thank  Thee  for  sending  forth  the  message  of 
salvation  into  all  the  world.  But  as  many  millions  are  still  going 
astray,  like  sheep  that  have  not  a  shepherd,  do  Thou,  the  Chief 
Shepherd  of  the  flock,  send  faithful  pastors  and  teachers  to 
gather  the  lost  and  wandering  into  Thy  fold,  that,  being  re- 
freshed with  Thy  salutary  Word,  they  may  worship  and  praise 
Thee  for  Thy  mercy  and  truth,  who  livest,  etc. 

Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast 
strengthened  and  refreshed  us  by  the  preaching  of  Thy  holy 
Word  and  by  a  recital  of  Thy  marvelous  works  among  men; 
and  we  beseech  Thee,  prosper  all  endeavors  to  spread  abroad  Thy 
Gospel  in  the  world,  that  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  may 
praise  Thy  name;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord, 
who  liveth,  etc. 

Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who  dost  call  the  Gentiles  unto 
the  fellowship  of  Thy  Son,  and  charge  Thy  disciples  to  make 
known  Thy  Word  to  them:  we  beseech  Thee,  let  us  in  grateful 
obedience  labor  zealously  to  carry  out  Thy  command,  and  do 
Thou  give  free  course  to  Thy  Word,  and  bless  the  messengers 
that  bring  good  tidings  and  publish  salvation  and  peace,  that 
Thy  name  may  be  glorified  among  the  heathen;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    ,1  men. 


4C  COLLE<  rS   AND   PRA1 ).::.'. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  wpuldst  have  all  men 
to  be  saved  and  to  come  unto  the  knowledge  of  the  trutl 
beseech  Thee,  keep  us  ever  mindful  of  our  commission  to  preach 
the  Gospel  to  every  creature.  Strengthen  us  by  Thy  grace,  lest 
we  grow  remiss  in  our  efforts  and  prayers  to  make  Thy  way 
known  upon  the  earth.  Enlarge  the  borders  of  Thy  kingdom, 
and  let  the  earth  be  filled  with  the  knowledge  of  Thy  glory,  as 
the  waters  cover  the  sea,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy 
Son,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  most  merciful  God,  who  hast  no  pleasure  in  the  death  of 
the  wicked,  but  that  the  wicked  turn  from  his  way  and  live:  we 
thank  Thee  for  preparing  Thy  way  before  the  face  of  all  people 
and  visiting  them  with  Thy  salvation.  And  we  beseech  Thee  to 
grant  Thy  Word  free  course,  and  to  accompany  it  with  Thy 
heavenly  benediction,  that  it  may  prosper  in  the  tiling  whereto 
Thou  didst  send  it;   through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that  we,  who 
in  time  past  were  far  off  and  without  Christ,  being  aliens  from 
the  commonwealth  of  Israel  and  strangers  from  the  covenants  of 
promise,  are  now  made  nigh  by  the  blood  of  Christ,  so  that  we 
are  fellow-citizens  with  the  saints  and  members  of  Thy  household; 
and  we  beseech  Thee,  fill  our  hearts  with  a  due  and  abiding  sense 
of  Thy  unspeakable  love,  that,  rejoicing  in  Thy  salvation,  we 
may  by  word  and  deed  evermore  thank  and  praise  Thee,  who 
hast  called  us  out  of  darkness  into  Thy  marvelous  light;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    A  men-. 

Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast 
ordained  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  for  a  Savior  of  all  men,  and 
appointed  Thy  Church  to  publish  the  tidings  of  salvation  unto 
the  ends  of  the  earth;  and  we  beseech  Thee,  awaken  our  hearts 
by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  that  we  may  ever  bear  in  mind  Thy  gra- 
cious purpose  and  solemn  command.  Kindle  such  ardent  love 
and  zeal  in  our  hearts,  that  we  may  labor  unremittingly  for  the 
conversion  of  all  who  do  not  know  Thee  or  have  fallen  away, 
that  they  may  not  be  lost,  but  turn  to  Thee  and  praise  Thy 
name,    through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.     Amen. 


SPECIAL   INTERCESSIONS   ANH  THAN-KSGIVING8.  47 

&prrial  JntrrrfUBlona  and  (ZJljankBnttmtgB. 


1.  FOR  A  Wo.MAX  AFTER  CHILDBIRTH. 

A  prayer  0/  thankagivinn  ha*  been  requested  for  -    — .  the  icife  of ,  whom 

the  Lord  hath   on biased    with    Ihc  [lift   of  a   healthy  . 

Blessed  art  Thou,  0  God,  that  Thou  hast  graciously  sus- 
tained this  mother  in  her  peril  and  pain,  and  gladdened  her 
heart  with  the  gift  of  a  healthy  child.  And  we  pray  Thee,  keep 
both  mother  and  child  in  Thy  protection,  give  them  strength  and 
health,  and  avert  whatever  might  prove  hurtful  to  them  in  body 
Or  soul.  And  as  Thou  wilt  be  [hast  been]  pleased  to  receive  the 
child  into  the  kingdom  of  Thy  grace  by  the  washing  of  Holy 
Baptism,  vouchsafe  unto  it  Thy  continual  blessing,  through  Jesus 
(  hrist,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

(for  the  BIRTH  OF  TWINS.) 

We  thank  Thee,  Heavenly  Father,  that  Thou  hast  blessed 
these  parents  and  graciously  delivered  the  mother  out  of  pain 
and  peril.  [And  we  pray  Thee,  vouchsafe  to  both  the  mother 
and  her  children  the  continuance  of  Thy  mercy,  give  them  health 
and  strength,  and  receive  the  children  into  Thy  gracious  covenant 
in  Holy  Baptism;  and  keep  (hem  therein  unto  their  end,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.  Amen.]  Especially  do  we 
thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  received  the  children,  by  the  washing 
of  Holy  Baptism,  into  the  kingdom  of  Thy  grace;  and  we  pray 
Thee,  vouchsafe  to  both  the  mother  and  her  children  the  con- 
tinuance of  Thy  mercy,  give  them  health  and  strength,  and  keep 
them  in  Thy  gracious  covenant  unto  their  end,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

(FOB  A   .STILL-BORN    CHILD.) 

Let   us    [H"cJ    pray  for   our   brother,   ,  and   hi*   uifc, .    \chane   hearts 

are  grieved  by  the  birth   of  a  stillborn   child. 

God,  Thou  art  wonderful,  and  the  ways  Thou  leadest  us 
are  often  dark  and  past  finding  out.  Thou  sayest :  "What  I  do, 
thou  knowest  not  now,  but  thou  shalt  know  hereafter."  Thou 
hast  turned  the  joyful  hopes  of  these  parents  into  sadness.  1  n 
reverent  humility  we  bow  before  the  dispensations  of  Thy  provi- 
dence.    Thou  art  the  Lord;    do  what  seemeth  Thee  good.     Only 


48  SPECIAL    INTERCESSIONS    AND   THANKSGIVINGS. 

\vc  pray  Thee,  hasten  the  recovery  of  the  mother,  and  comfort 
both  her  and  her  husband,  in  the  hours  of  sorrow,  by  Thy  gra- 
cious presence,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

2.  FOR  THE  CHURCHING  OF  WOMEN. 

Let    US    [We]    pray    for .    the    uife    of ,    who    has    came    lii    i/irr 

thanks   for   her   deliverance. 

God,  we  praise  Thee  for  Thy  great  mercy  shown  to  this 
mother  and  her  child,  and  humbly  beseech  Thee  to  keep  them 
always  in  Thy  gracious  care.  Hear,  0  Lord,  the  supplications 
of  the  mother,  take  her  into  Thy  fatherly  protection,  and  com- 
pass her  with  Thy  favor  as  with  a  shield.  Dispose  and  enable 
the  parents  to  give  their  child  a  Christian  training,  that  so  it 
may  grow  up  to  Thine  honor  and  the  joy  of  all  true  believers. 
Amen. 

3.  FOR  THE  CATECHUMENS. 

Let  us   [We]   pray  for  our  catechumens,  that  they  may  be  thoroughly  grounded 
in   the  knowledge  of  the  saving   truth. 

Almighty  and  eternal  God,  as  another  class  of  catechumens 
is  entering  upon  a  course  of  instruction  preparing  them  for  Holy 
Communion,  we  beseech  Thee  Thou  wouldst  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
enlighten,  strengthen,  and  sanctify  their  understandings,  memo- 
ries, hearts,  and  wills,  that  Thy  name  may  be  hallowed  through 
them,  Thy  kingdom  come  to  them,  and  Thy  will  be  done  by 
them.  Do  Thou  also  anoint  their  parents  and  sponsors  with  Thy 
grace,  and  dispose  them  to  render  faithful  assistance  by  their 
example,  admonition,  and  prayer,  that  these  children  may  be  made 
partakers  of  Thy  perfect  blessing,  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  (bar 
Son»  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Almighty  and  eternal  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  who  in 
Holy  Baptism  didst  begin  Thy  good  work  in  these  catechumens, 
and  hast  so  far  given  success  to  their  training,  and  improved 
our  efforts  and  prayers  in  their  behalf,  that,  being  instructed  in 
the  Word  of  Truth,  they  now  look  forward  to  being  admitted  to 
the  Lord's  Supper:  we  beseech  Thee,  cause  the  last  days  and 
hours  of  their  catechetical  instruction  to  abound  in  blessings  to 
their  hearts  and  minds,  that  in  the  power  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
they  may  confess  their  faith  with  joy  and  boldness,  and  glorify 
and  praise  Thee  as  their  faithful  God  and  Lord,  for  the  sake 
of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Savior.    Amen. 


SPECIAL  INTERCESSIONS  AND  THANKSGIVINGS.  -19 

a 

4.  FOE  THE  COMMUNICANTS. 

I.i  i    vs    [We]    also    prop    for   our   communicants. 

Lord  Jesus,  flrhb  caliest  unto  Thee  all  those  that  labor  and 
v  laden,  to  refresh  them  and  give  rest  unto  their  souls, 
we  pray  Thee,  let  these  guests  experience  Thy  love  at  the  heavenly 
aicli  Thou  hast  prepared  for  Thy  children  on  earth.  Keep 
them  from  impenitence  and  unbelief,  that  no  one  may  partake 
of  this  holy  Sacrament  to  his  damnation.  Take  off  from  them 
the  spotted  garment  of  the  flesh  and  of  their  own  righteousness, 
and  adorn  them  with  the  garment  of  the  merit  purchased  with 
Thy  blood.  Strengthen  their  faith,  increase  their  love  and  hope, 
and  hereafter  make  them  to  sit  at  Thy  heavenly  table,  where 
Thou  wilt  give  those  that  are  Thine  to  eat  of  the  eternal  manna 
and  to  drink  of  the  river  of  Thy  pleasure  forevermore.  Hear  us 
for  Thine  own  sake.    Amen. 

5.  FOR  PERSONS  BETROTHED. 

The  fallowing  persona  ,  desiring  to  enter  the  estate  of  matrimony,  request 

the  prayers  of  the  congregation.     (Or:    I  publish  the  Bans  of  Marriage  between 

X.,  of  — ■ — ,  and  .V.,  of  .)     If  anyone  can  show  just  cause  why  they  may 

not  be  joined  together,  let  him  now  speak,  or  eccr  after  hold  his  peace.     (This 

is    the   first    time  of  asking.) 

Let  us  pray! 

Thou  blessest,  0  Lord,  and  it  shall  be  blessed  forever.  We 
beseech  Thee,  therefore,  that  Thou  wilt  vouchsafe  unto  these  be- 
trothed persons  the  rich  blessings  of  Thy  fatherly  hand.  Make 
them  pure  in  heart,  and  give  them  grace  to  love  and  fear  Thee, 
that  they  may  together  walk  in  the  ways  of  Thy  holy  Word, 
and  receive  Thy  gifts  with  thanksgiving.  Above  all,  enable  them 
to  attain  the  price  of  their  high  calling  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus. 
Amen. 

Everlasting  and  living  God,  as  the  estate  of  matrimony  or- 
dained by  Thee  is  a  holy  estate,  and  to  be  kept  holy  by  us,  we 
pray  Thee  to  anoint  these  betrothed  persons  with  Thy  Spirit, 
that  they  may  enter  into  this  estate  in  Thy  name,  continue  it  to 
Thine  honor  and  their  own  welfare,  and  conclude  it,  with  Thy 
help,  in  joy  and  bliss.  Even  in  life  and  death  be  Thou  their 
Cod.   for  the  sake  of  Thy  faithfulness  and  truth.    Amen. 

0  most  holy  God,  who  art  the  Author  of  the  marriage  cove- 
nant, and  desirest  us  to  keep  it  holy,  we  beseech  Thee  that  Thou 
wouldst  behold  with  favor  these  Thy  servants  who  intend  to  have 
their  betrothment  sanctified  by  Thy  Word,  and  to  supplicate  the 

1  ITIRGY    AND    AGENDA.  * 


50  SPECIAL   INTERCESSIONS   AND   THANKSGIVINGS. 

ft 

blessing  once  pronounced  upon  all  whom  Thou  dost  join  together. 
Do  Thou  consecrate  and  sanctify  them,  0  God,  that  they  may 
begin  their  wedded  life  with  Thee;  and  grant  them  grace  ever 
to  remember  with  gladness  that  Thou  hast  united  them.  Enter 
into  their  hearts  with  Thy  fear  and  into  their  home  with  Thy 
blessing.     Hear  us  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.    Amen. 

6.  FOR  THE  SICK. 

We  pray  to  God   [Thee]   in  behalf  of  a  sick  brother,  for  whom,  in  his  great 
distress,  our  intercession  is  desired. 

0  Lord,  our  God,  who  art  the  Physician  of  our  souls  and 
of  our  bodies;  who  chastenest  and  again  Thou  healest:  we  be- 
seech Thee  mercifully  to  regard  Thy  servant,  [N.,]  for  whom 
we  pray  that  his  life  may  be  spared,  and  his  strength  restored. 
0  Thou,  who  didst  give  Thy  Son  to  bear  our  sicknesses  and  carry 
our  sorrows,  for  His  sake  deal  compassionately  with  this  Thy 
servant,  and  send  upon  him  Thy  healing  power  and  virtue,  both 
in  Ms  body  and  in  his  soul  and  spirit.  Into  Thy  hands  we 
commit  him;  unto  Thy  gracious  mercy  and  protection  we  com- 
mend him,  as  unto  a  faithful  and  merciful  Savior,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.    Amen. 

0  Father  of  mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort,  our  only  Help 
in  time  of  need,  look  down  from  heaven,  we  humbly  beseech 
Thee,  behold,  visit,  and  relieve  this  Thy  sick  servant,  for  whom 
our  prayers  are  desired.  Look  upon  him  with  the  eyes  of  Thy 
mercy,  comfort  him  with  a  sense  of  Thy  goodness,  preserve  him 
from  the  temptations  of  the  enemy,  give  him  patience  under  his 
affliction,  and  in  Thy  good  time  restore  him  to  health,  and  enable 
Mm  to  lead  the  rest  of  Ms  life  in  Thy  fear  and  to  Thy  glory. 
Or  else  give  Mm  grace  so  to  take  Thy  visitation  that,  after  this 
painful  life  is  ended,  he*  may  dwell  with  Thee  in  life  ever- 
lasting, through   Jesus   Christ,   our  Lord.    Amen. 

(for  a  sick  child.) 
0  almighty  God,  our  Father  in  heaven,  have  pity  upon  the 
young  child,  [N.,]  now  lying  upon  the  bed  of  sickness.  Spare 
the  life  which  Thou  hast  given,  and  relieve  the  pains  of  the 
helpless;  direct  the  ministry  of  healing  for  his  recovery,  and 
revive  his  spirit,  that  the  frailty  of  the  body  may  pass  away; 
renew  his  strength  both  inwardly  and  outwardly,  and  grant  unto 
him  many  years  on  earth,  to  serve  Thee  faithfully  by  doing  good 


IONS    ami   TIIANKSC1  .',1 

in  his  generation.  Nevertheless,  <>  Father,  whatsoever  Thy  will 
be  concerning  this  child,  we  know  that  he  is  in  Thy  keeping, 
and  we  pray  that  A. is  soul  may  be  Thine  forever  and!  ever,  in 

Lord.    Amen. 

Almighty  God  and  merciful   Father,  to  whom  alone  belong 

the  issues  of  life  and  death',  look  down  from  heaven,  we  humbly 

I    -  Thee,  with  the  eyes  of  Thy  mercy  upon  the  sick  child 

for   whom    our    prayers    are    desired.      Deliver    him,    0    Lord,    in 

ed  time,  from  his  bodily  pain,  and  visit  him 
with  Thy  salvation,  that,  if  it  should  be  Thy  good  pleasure  to 
prolong  his  days  here  on  earth,  he  may  live  to  Thee  and  be  an 
instrument  of  Thy  glory  by  serving  Thee  faithfully  and  doing 
good  in  his  generation.  Or  else  receive  him  into  those  heavenly 
habitations  where  the  souls  of  those  who  sleep  in  the  Lord  Jesus 
enjoy  eternal  rest  and  happiness.  Grant  this,  0  Lord,  for  the 
love  of  Thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

(for  one  who  is  near  to  death.) 
Eternal  God,  to  whom  belong  the  issues  of  life  and  death, 
we  implore  Thy  mercy  for  Thy  servant,  [X.,]  whose  time  of 
departure  seemeth  to  be  near  at  hand.  With  Thee  there  is 
nothing  impossible,  and  Thou  canst  raise  him  up  even  yet  and 
prolong  his  earthly  pilgrimage,  if  it  be  Thy  will;  but  if  not, 
0  God,  be  gracious  unto  him,  and  prepare  Mm  to  yield  his  soul 
unto  Thee.  Give  unto  him  sincere  repentance,  true  faith,  abun- 
dant forgiveness,  and  a  heavenly  hope;  suffer  him  not,  in  the 
last  hour,  for  any  pain  or  fear  of  death,  to  fall  away  from 
Thee,  but  let  Thine  everlasting  arms  be  underneath  him,  and 
grant  him  a  peaceful  departure  and  a  happy  entrance  into  eternal 
rest,  through  the  merits  and  intercession  of  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Savior.    Amen. 

(FOR  ON'E  restored  from  sickness.) 
0  God,  who  art  the  Giver  of  life,  of  health,  and  of  safety, 
-  Thy  name  that  Thou  hast  been  pleased  to  deliver  from 
his  bodily  sickness  Thy  servant,  [N.,]  who  now  desireth  to  re- 
turn thanks  unto  Thee  in  the  presence  of  Thy  people  Gracious 
art  Thou,  0  Lord,  and  full  of  compassion  to  the  children  of  men. 
May  his  heart  be  daily  impressed  with  a  sense  of  Thy  merciful 
goodness,  and  may  he  devote  the  rest  of  his  days  to  an  humble, 
holy,  and  obedient  walking  before  Thee,  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 


52  SPECIAL   INTERCESSIONS   AND   THANKSGIVINGS. 

7.  AT  THE  ANNOUNCEMENT  OF  A  DEATH. 

It   hath  pleased  Almighty   God   to   summon    out   of   this    vale   of   tears    to   our 

eternal  home  the  soul  of  N.,  whose  mortal  remains  will  be  committed   to   the 

ground  ,  the  service  being  held  at  

(at  the  death  op  a  young  child.) 
0  Thou  living  and  everlasting  God,  who  turnest  man  to 
destruction  and  sayest,  "Return,  ye  children  of  men,"  we  thank 
Thee  for  all  the  mercies  which,  during  his  short  life  upon  earth, 
Thou  hast  shown  unto  this  child  now  taken  into  Thine  ever- 
lasting rest.  We  pray  Thee,  grant  Ms  body  sweet  sleep  in  the 
grave,  but  on  the  last  day  awaken  him  to  appear  with  joy  be- 
fore Thy  presence.  Cause  his  parents  to  know  Thy  will,  that 
they  may  be  comforted,  and  the  wounds  which  Thou  hast  in- 
flicted may  be  healed.  Let  them  bear  in  mind  the  power  of 
Holy  Baptism,  by  which  their  beloved  child  is  now  delivered 
from  sin  and  from  the  perils  and  miseries  of  this  present  world, 
and  has  been  received  among  Thy  saints  perfected.  And  we, 
who  still  live  in  the  body,  beseech  Thee  to  strengthen  and  keep 
us  in  Thy  grace,  that  so,  when  our  last  hour  shall  come,  we 
may  depart  in  peace;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord 
and  Savior.    Amen. 

(AT    THE   DEATH   OF   A   CHRISTIAN    BROTHER   OR    SISTER.) 

0  Lord  God,  Thou  Lord  of  life  and  death,  who  turnest 
man  to  destruction  and  sayest,  "Return,  ye  children  of  men," 
we  give  Thee  thanks  for  all  the  mercies  which  during  his  life 
Thou  didst  bestow  upon  this  our  beloved  brother  now  fallen 
asleep;  and  especially  do  we  bless  Thee  for  having  brought  him 
to  the  knowledge  of  Thy  dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ.  We  pray  Thee, 
comfort  the  survivors  with  Thine  everlasting  comfort,  and  cheer 
them  with  the  sweet  hope  of  a  blessed  reunion  in  heaven.  Grant 
to  the  lifeless  body  rest  in  the  bosom  of  the  earth,  and  here- 
after, together  with  us  all,  a  joyful  resurrection  to  life  ever- 
lasting. Teach  us  all  to  number  our  days,  that  we  may  apply 
our  hearts  unto  wisdom  and  finally  be  saved;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy  beloved  Son,  our  "Lord  and  Savior.    Amen. 

(AT  A   SUDDEN   DEATH.) 

0  Lord  God,  Thou  Lord  of  life  and  death,  who  turnest 
man  to  destruction  and  sayest,  "Return,  ye  children  of  men," 
we  humbly  give  Thee  thanks  for  all  the  benefits  of  body  and 


SPECIAL  INTERCESSIONS  a.nd  THANKSGIVINGS.  53 

soul  which  during  his  Life  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon  the  de- 
ceased, who  hath  been  so  suddenly  called  away.  We  pray  Thee 
to  comfort  all  the  survivors,  who  mourn  his  death,  and  to  awaken 
us  all  to  sincere  repentance  and  true  faith,  that  in  the  hour  of 
our  departure  we  may  commit  our  souls  and  bodies  into  Tin- 
hands,  fall  asleep  with  joy  unto  eternal  life,  and  finally  rise 
again  on  the  last  day  in  bliss  and  glory ;  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  only  Mediator  and  Redeemer.    Amen. 

8.   DURING  A  VACANCY  IN  A  CHURCH. 

0  Thou  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  tins 
Thy  flock  being  without  a  pastor,  we  entreat  Thee,  turn  Thine 
eyes  upon  these  Thy  people  and  graciously  regard  their  need. 
Let  them  continue  steadfast  in  Thy  pure  Word,  and  send  them 
in  Thine  own  good  time  a  faithful  steward  of  Thy  mysteries, 
who,  holding  fast  the  confession  of  the  truth,  shall  feed  Thy 
flock  in  singleness  of  mind.  As  Thou  hast  planted  Thy  vine- 
yard in  this  place,  do  Thou  visit  it  and  water  it  abundantly 
with  the  dew  of  Thy  blessing  by  Thy  holy  Word.  Grant  unto 
Thy  Church  peace,  unity,  safety,  and  prosperity,  and  establish 
Thy  work  by  the  power  of  Thy  Spirit  to  the  glory  of  Thy  name 
and  the  salvation  of  immortal  souls,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ, 
Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen.  ^ 

9.  IN  TIME  OF  DEATH  AND  FAMINE. 
See  Collects  and  Prayers,  No.  40. 

10    IN   TIME  OF  UNSEASONABLE   WEATHER. 
Sec  Collects  and  Prayers,  No.  41. 

11.   IN   TIME   OF  PESTILENCE. 
Holy   and    mighty   Lord,   who   hast   promised,    "There   shall 
no   evil    befall    thee,    neither   shall    any    plague   come   nigh    thy 
dwelling,"  we  beseech   Thee  to  hear  our  cry  for  those  who  are 

suffering  and   dying    [in   ]    under   the  visitation  of   disease. 

Mercifully  bless  the  means  which  are  used  to  stay  the  spread 
of  sickness,  strengthen  those  who  labor  to  heal  and  comfort  the 
afflicted,  support  those  who  are  in  pain  and  distress,  speedilv 
restore  those  who  have  been  brought  low.  and  unto  all  who  are 
beyond  healing  grant  Thy  heavenly  consolation  and  Thy  saving 
grace,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


,r>4  M'lUAl,   in TERCESSrCN-S   AMD  THANKSGIVINGS; 

12.  AFTER  A  GREAT  DISASTER. 
Almighty  God,  who  art  a  very  present  Help  in  time  of 
trouble,  let  not  the  heart  of  Thy  people  fail  when  fear  cometh, 
but  do  Thou  sustain  and  comfort  them  until  these  calamities  be 
overpassed;  and  since  Thou  knowest  the  cause  and  reason  why 
this  grievous  disaster  [of  fire,  flood,  earthquake,  shipwreck,  storm, 
or  other  trouble]  hath  fallen  upon  men,  so  do  Thou  forgive  our 
sins,  heal  the  hurt  and  wounded,  console  the  bereaved  and  afflicted, 
protect  the  innocent  and  helpless,  and  deliver  any  who  are  still 
in  peril;  for  the  sake  of  Thy  great  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

13.  IN  TIME  OF  INSURRECTIONS  AND  TUMULTS. 

0  almighty  Lord  God,  who  alone  riddest  away  tyrants,  and 
stillest  the  noise  and  tumult  of  the  people,  stir  up  Thy  great 
strength,  we  beseech  Thee,  and  come  and  help  us;  scatter  the 
counsels  of  them  that  secretly  devise  mischief,  and  do  Thou  bring 
the  dealings  of  the  violent  to  naught;  cast  down  the  unjust  from 
high  places,  and  cause  the  unruly  to  cease  from  troubling;  allay 
all  envious  and  malicious  passions,  and  subdue  the  haters  and 
evil-doers,  that  our  land  may  have  rest  before  Thee,  and  that 
all  the  people  may  praise  Thee,  our  Help  and  our  Shield,  both 
now  and  evermore.    Amen. 

14.  IN  TIME  OF  WAR. 

0  almighty  God,  supreme  Ruler  and  Governor  of  all  things, 
who  art  a  strong  tower  of  defense  to  them  that  fear  Thee,  and 
whose  power  no  creature  is  able  to  resist:  unto  Thee  do  we 
cry  in  the  hour  of  our  country's  need.  To  Thee  it  belongeth 
justly  to  punish  sinners,  and  to  be  merciful  to  those  who  repent. 
Save  and  deliver  us,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  from  the  hands 
of  our  enemies ;  abate  their  pride,  check  their  malice,  and  con- 
found their  devices,  that  we,  being  armed  with  Thy  defense, 
may  be  preserved  evermore  from  all  perils,  to  glorify  Thee,  who 
art  the  only  Giver  of  all  victory;  through  the  merits  of  Thy 
Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

0  Lord  God  of  infinite  mercy,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  to 
look  down  upon  the  nations  now  engaged  in  war.  Reckon  not 
against  Thy  people  their  many  iniquities,  for  from  the  lusts  of 
our  own  hearts  come  wars  and  fighting  amongst  us.     Look   in 


SPECIAL    INTERCESSIONS   AND   THANKSGIVINGS.  05 

mere)'  on  those  immediately  exposed  to  peril,  conflict,  sickness, 
and  death;  comfort  the  prisoners,  relieve  the  sufferings  of  the 
wounded,  and  show  mercy  to  the  dying.  Remove  in  Thy  good 
providence  all  causes  and  occasions  of  war,  dispose  the  hearts 
of  those  engaged  therein  to  moderation,  and  of  Thy  great  good- 
ness restore  peace  among  the  nations ;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

15.  IN  TIME  OF  PEACE  RESTORED. 

We  thank  Thee,  most  gracious  God  and  Father,  who  hast 
put  an  end  to  the  horrors  of  war,  and  delivered  us  from  the 
hand  of  our  enemies;  we  thank  Thee  for  Thy  mercy  and  truth, 
and  glorify  Thy  name,  and  our  lips  do  greatly  rejoice;  for 
Thou  hast  not  regarded  our  sin  and  our  iniquity,  but  hast  dealt 
with  us  according  to  Thy  unmerited  grace,  and  hast  heard  our 
humble  requests.  Bind  up,  we  heartily  beseech  Thee,  and  heal 
the  wounds  which  war  hath  inflicted  on  our  country.  Plant 
and  build  again  what  hath  been  laid  waste  and  made  desolate. 
Especially  we  beseech  Thee,  of  Thy  mercy,  to  remember  those 
who  have  been  visited  by  the*  havoc  of  war,  and  let  them  find 
Thy  fatherly  heart  and  Thy  bountiful  hand  open  towards  them. 
Preserve  and  keep  unto  us  the  blessing  of  peace.  Restrain  the 
evil  counsel  of  those  who  devise  mischief  continually  and  sow 
discord;  bring  to  naught  their  crafty  counsel,  and  make  their 
knowledge  foolish.  Scatter  Thou  the  people  that  delight  in  war; 
break  the  bow,  and  cut  the  spear  in  sunder;  break  the  sword 
and  the  battle  by  Thy  strong  arm,  that  men,  overwhelmed  with 
fear  and  terror,  may  desist  from  the  ways  of  violence  and  op- 
pression. Unite  the  hearts  of  the  mighty  ones  on  earth,  and 
establish  peace  and  concord  between  them,  and  set  thereon,  by 
the  Spirit  of  Thy  grace,  the  seal  of  permanence  and  of  blessing. 
Grant  that  we  all  may  dwell  together  in  unity  and  peace,  and 
1-t  all  mutual  offenses  and  hatred  and  ill-will  be  removed.  But 
above  all  grant  us  that  peace  which  the  world  can  neither  give 
nor  take'  away,  and  grant  us  grace .  that  we  may  be  delivered 
from  every  conflict  and  strife,  dwell  in  the  tabernacles  of  peace, 
and,  in  the  rest  of  the  saints  and  of  the  blessed,  praise,  bless, 
worship,   and  glorify   Thee,   world   without  end.    Amen. 


PART   II 


Agenda 


I.  Uapttam. 


1.    THE  BAPTISM  OF  INFANTS. 

FIEST   FORM. 

Dearly  Beloved:  [We  learn  from  the  Word  of  God  that  all 
men  from  the  fall  of  Adam  are  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and  so 
are  under  the  wrath  of  God,  and  would  be  lost  forever,  unless 
delivered  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

This  child,  then,  is  also  by  nature  sinful  and  under  the  wrath 
of  God.  But  the  Father  of  all  mercy  and  grace  hath  promised 
and  sent  His  Son  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  borne  the  sins  of  the 
whole  world,  and  redeemed  and  saved  little  children,  no  less  than 
others,  from  sin,  death,  and  everlasting  condemnation.  He  also 
commanded  that  little  children  should  be  brought  to  Him,  and 
graciously  received  and  blessed  them. 

Wherefore  I  beseech  your  out  of  Christian  love,  to  intercede, 
for  this  child,  to  bring  him  to  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  to  ask  for  him 
the  forgiveness  of  sin  and  the  grace  and  salvation  of  Christ's 
kingdom,  nowise  doubting  that  our  dear  Lord  favorably  regardeth 
such  work  of  love,  and  certainly  heareth  our  prayers. 

And]  Forasmuch  as  our  Lord  hath  commanded  Baptism, 
saying  to  His  disciples,  in  the  last  chapter  of  Matthew:  "Go  ye. 
therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of 
the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Gost";  and  also 
hath  given  promise,  in  the  last  chapter  of.  Mark:  "He  that  be- 
lieveth  and  is  baptized  shall  be  saved" :  it  is  meet  and  right  that. 
in  obedience  to  His  command,  and  trusting  in  His  promise,  you 
should  bring  this  child  to  be  baptized  in  His  name. 

[The  Exhortation  to   the  Sponsors   (see  below  after  Mark  10)  may  be  read 
at  this  place.] 

Then  the  Minister  mav  make  the  sipn  of  the  cross  on   the  child's  forehead  and 
breast,  saying: 

Receive  the  sign  of  the  holy  cross,  both  upon  the  fore- 
head f  and  upon  the  breast  f>  in  token  that  thou  hast  been 
redeemed  by  Christ  the  Crucified. 

Let  us  pray :  — 


60  BAPTISM. 

1. 

Almighty  and  eternal  God,  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
we  pray  Thee,  bestow  upon  this  N.,  here  presented  for  Holy 
Baptism,  Thine  everlasting  grace  through  regeneration  by  the 
Holy  Ghost.  Receive  him,  0  Lord,  according  to  Thy  Word 
and  promise:  "Ask,  and  it  shall  be  given  you;  seek,  and  ye 
shall  find;  knock,  and  it  shall  be  opened  unto  you'' ;  and  grant 
that  he  may  obtain  the  everlasting  blessing  of  this  heavenly 
washing  and  come  to  the  kingdom  which  Thou  hast  promised; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

2. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  according  to  Thy  right- 
eous judgment  didst  destroy  the  unbelieving  world  by  the  Flood, 
and  according  to  Thy  great  mercy  didst  save  faithful  Noah  and 
his  family ,  who  didst  drown  obdurate  Pharaoh  with  all  his  host 
in  the  Red  Sea,  and  didst  safely  lead  Thy  people  Israel  through 
the  midst  thereof,  prefiguring  thereby  this  washing  of  Thy  Holy 
Baptism ;  and  who,  by  the  Baptism  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  didst  sanctify  and  ordain  Jordan  and  all 
waters  for  a  saving  flood  and  an  abundant  washing  away  of  sin : 
we  beseech  Thee,  of  Thine  infinite  mercy,  to  look  with  favor 
upon  this  child  and  to  bless  Mm  in  the  Spirit  with  true  faith, 
that,  by  this  salutary  flood,  there  may  be  drowned  and  destroyed 
in  him  all  that  he  hath  inherited  from  Adam,  and  himself  added 
thereto,  and  that,  being  separated  from  the  number  of  the  un- 
believing, he  may  be  securely  kept  in  the  holy  ark  of  the  Chris- 
tian Church,  and  ever  serve  Thy  name  with  fervent  spirit  and 
joyful  hope,  to  the  end  that,  together  with  all  believers,  he  may 
be  accounted  worthy  by  Thy  promise  and  obtain  eternal  life, 
through   Jesus   Christ,   our   Lord.    Amen. 

Hear  the  Holy  Gospel  of  St.  Mark,  which  saith :  "And  they 
brought  young  children  to  Jesus,  that  He  should  touch  them; 
and  His  disciples  rebuked  those  that  brought  them.  But  when 
Jesus  saw  it,  He  was  much  displeased,  and  said  unto  them, 
Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid  them 
not;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Verily,  I  say  unto 
you,  Whosoever  shall  not  receive  the  kingdom  of  God  as  a  little 
child,  he  shall  not  enter  therein.  And  He  took  them  up  in 
His  arms,  put  His  hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them."  (Mark 
10,  13—16.) 


RAI'TISM  CI 

It  also  behooves  you  as  sponsors,  while  confessing  in  this 
sacred  act  the  faith  of  the  Christian  Church  in  the  Triune  God, 
in  whose  name  this  child  is  to  be  baptized,  to  bear  witness  pub- 
licly in  the  child's  stead  that  by  Holy  Baptism  as  a  means  of 
grace  he  obtains  and  possesses  the  saving  faith  in  the  one  true 
God.  and  renounces  the  devil  and  his  wicked  works.  Moreover, 
after  this. child  has  been  baptized,  you  should  at  all  times  re- 
member him  in  your  prayers,  put  him  in  mind  of  his  Baptism, 
and,  as  much  as  in  you  lies,  lend  your  counsel  and  aid  (espe- 
cially if  he  should  lose  7m  parents),  that  he  may  be  brought 
up  in  the  true  knowledge  and  fear  of  God,  according  to  the 
teachings  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  and  faithfully  keep  the  bap- 
tismal covenant  unto  the  end.  This,  then,  you  intend  gladly 
and  willingly  to  do? 

Answer:    Yes. 

May  God  enable  you  both  to  will  and  to  do  this  charitable 
work,  and  with  His  grace  fulfil  what  we  are  unable  to  do.   Amen. 

In  order  to  implore  the  blessing  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
upon  this  child,  let  us  pray: 

Then  the  Minister,  laving  his  right  hand  upon  the  head  of  the  child,  shall  say, 
and  the  sponsors  and  all  present  may  say  tcith  him: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us 
our  trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  .and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  Lord  preserve  Thy  coming  in  and  Thy  going  out  from 
this  time  forth  and  even  forevermore.    f     Amen. 

Then  may   the  Minister  say   to   the  Sponsors. 

I  now  ask  you  to  answer,  in  the  name  and  in  the  stead  of 
this  child,  the  questions  which  I  address  to  him,  to  signify 
thereby  that  which  God  in  and  through  Baptism  works  in  him. 

I    shall   the  Minister  say. 

X  Dost  thou  renounce  the  devil,  and  all  his  works,  and 
all  his  ways  ? 

Answer:    Yes,   I   do. 


62  BAPTISM. 

Dost  thou  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth? 

Answer:    Yes,   I  do. 

Dost  thou  believe  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our  Lord; 
Who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost;  Born  of  the  Virgin 
Mary;  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate;  Was  crucified,  dead,  and 
buried;  He  descended  into  hell;  The  third  day  He_  rose  again 
from  the  dead;  He  ascended  into  heaven;  And  sitteth  on  the 
right  hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty;  From  thence  He 
shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead? 

Ansiver:    Yes,  I  do. 

Dost  thou  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost;  The  holy  Christian 
Church,  the  communion  of  saints;  The  forgiveness  of  sins;  The 
resurrection  of  the  body;    And  the  life  everlasting? 

Answer:    Yes,  I  do. 

Wilt  thou  be  baptized  into  this  Christian  faith? 

Answer:    Yes,  I  will. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  apply  water  three  times  upon  the  head  of  the  child, 
as  he  names  each  person  of  the  Holy   Trinity: 

N.,  I  baptize  thee  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    f    Amen. 

Then  the  Minister,  laying  his  right  hand  upon  the  head  of  the  child,  shall  say: 

Almighty  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who 
hath  begotten  thee  again  of  water  and  the  Spirit,  and  hath  for- 
given thee  all  thy  sins,  strengthen  thee  with  His  grace  unto 
life  everlasting.    Amen. 

Peace  be  with  thee,    f     Amen. 

The  Minister  may  add: 

Let  us  pray. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God  and  Father,  we  thank  and 
praise  Thee  that  Thou  dost  graciously  preserve  and  extend  Thy 
Church,  and  hast  granted  to  this  child  the  new  birth  in  Holy 
Baptism,  and  made  him  a  member  of  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  and  an  heir  of  Thy  heavenly  kingdom.  We  humbly 
beseech  Thee,  that,  as  he  hath  now  become  Thy  child,  Thou 
wouldst  keep  him  in  his  baptismal  grace,  that,  according  to  all 
Thy  good  pleasure,  he  may  be  faithfully  brought  up  to  lead 
a  godly  life  to  the  praise  and  honor  of  Thy  holy  name,  and 
finally,  with  all  Thy  saints,  obtain  the  promised  inheritance  in 
heaven,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


BAPTISM.  83 

SECOND   FOBM. 
(Without  Sponsors.) 

Doarlv  Beloved:    In  bringing  this  child  to  Baptism,  you  are 
observing  the  will  of  the  Lord,  who  commanded  Baptism,  saying 
in  thp  last  chapter  of  Matthew:    "Go  ye  and  teach  all  nations 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost."     We  should,  indeed,  value  this  Sacrament 
highlv    particularly  since  it  is  the  only  means  of  grace  God  has 
given  us  for  little  children.     Little  children,  though  seemingly 
innocent,  are  bv  birth  and  nature  sinful,  and  without   forgive- 
ness would  be  lost  forever.     We  know  that  God  gave  His  Son 
into  death  to  atone  for  the  sins  of  all,  that  whosoever  beheveth 
in   Him  should  not   perish,   but   have  everlasting   life.     But  as 
little  children  are  as  yet  unable  to  understand  the  Gospel,  faith 
cannot  be  worked  in  them  by  telling  them  of  Christ.     We  can 
never  sufficiently  thank  God,  therefore,  that  He  has  made  Bap- 
tism   a   means   whereby   He  works   in  little   children   with    His 
divine  -race,  turning  their  hearts  to  faith,  cleansing  away  their 
sins,  and  receiving  them  into  His  kingdom.     The  simple  act  of 
Baptism  has  such  wonderful  power  because  the   Almighty  God 
Himself  works  in  it  through  His  Word.     "Baptism  is  not  simple 
water  only,  but  it  is  the  water  comprehended  in  God's  command 
and  connected  with  God's  Word."    The  divine  Word  makes  Bap- 
tism what  Paul  calls  it,  Titus  3,  "the  washing  of  regeneration 
ami  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost."     For  this  reason  Christ  says 
in  the  last  chapter  of  Mark:    "He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized 
shall  be  saved." 

It  is  meet  and  right,  therefore,  that  we  should  here,  in  the 
sight  of  God,  administer  and  employ  this  blessed  Sacrament  in 
the  fear  of  God,  with  due  reverence,  and  with  sincere  devotion. 
Receive  the  sign  of  the  holy  cross,  both  upon  the  forehead  t 
and  upon  the  breast  f,  in  token  that  thou  hast  been  redeemed 
bv   Christ  the  Crucified. 

Hear  the  holy  Gospel  of  St.  Mark,  which  saith :  "And  they 
brought  voung  children  to  Him  that  He  should  touch  them; 
and  His  "disciples  rebuked  those  that  brought  them.  But  when 
Jesus  saw  it,  He  was  much  displeased  and  said  unto  them, 
Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid  them 
not;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Verily,  I  say  unto 
you,  Whosoever  shall  not  receive  the  kingdom  of  God  as  a  little 


CA  BAPTISM. 

child,  he  shall  not  enter  therein.  And  He  took  them  up  in 
His  arms,  put  His  hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them."  (Mark 
10,   13—16.) 

In  order  to  ask  this  blessing  of' our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  upon 
this  child,  let  us  pray: 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  whose  promises  are  unto 
us  and  unto  our  children,  we  heartily  beseech  Thee  to  look  upon 
this  child  with  Thy  tender  mere}',  and  to  renew  him  by  Thy 
Holy  Spirit  in  the  Sacrament  of  Baptism,  that  he  may  be  Thy 
child  and  an  heir  of  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation ;  But  deliver  us  from  evil ;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

Tbe  Lord  preserve  Thy  coming  in  and  Thy  going  out  from 
this  time  forth  and  even  forevermore.    f     Amen. 

Let  us  now  confess  our  Christian  faith,  into  which  this 
child  is  to  be  baptized : 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth. 

And  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our  Lord;  Who  was 
conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost ;  Born  of  the  Virgin  Mary ,  Suffered 
under  Pontius  Pilate,  Was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried;  He  de- 
scended into  hell;  The  third  day  He  rose  again  from  the  dead; 
He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right  hand  of  God 
the  Father  Almighty;  From  thence  He  shall  come  to  judge  the 
quick  and  the  dead. 

I  believe  in  ,  the  Holy  Ghost ;  The  holy  Christian  Church, 
the  communion  of  saints;  The  forgiveness  of  sins;  The  resur- 
rection of  the  body;    And  the  life  everlasting.    Amen. 

N.,  I  baptize  thee  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    f     Amen. 

Almighty  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who 
hath  begotten  thee  again  of  water  and  the  Spirit,  and  hath 
forgiven  thee  all  thy  sins,  strengthen  thee  with  His  grace  unto 
life  everlasting.    Amen. 


BAPTISM.  65 

Peace  be  with  thee,    t     Amen. 

Lk  •   us  pray. 

We  thank  Thee,  gracious  Father,  that  Thou  hast  n 
this  child  through  Holy  Baptism  into  the  covenant  and  king- 
dom of  Thy  grace,  in  which  we  have  forgiveness  of  sin  and  ever- 
lasting life.  Grant,  we  beseech  Thee,  that,  being  buried  with 
Christ  in  Baptism,  he  may  be  dead  unto  sin  and  made  alive 
unto  righteousness,  that  in  the  end,  together  with  his  parents 
and  all  saints,  he  may  obtain  the  promised  inheritance  in  heaven, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

EMKRGEXCY    BAPTISM. 

Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made  heaven 
and  earth.    Amen. 

Receive  the  sign  of  the  holy  cross,  both  upon  the  f  fore- 
head and  the  f  breast,  in  token  that  thou  hast  been  redeemed 
by  Christ  the  Crucified. 

If  there  is  time,  the  irords  of  the  holy  Gospel,  as  they  are  written  in  the  tenth 

chapter  of  Hark,  vv.  13 — 16,  may  be  read,  also  a  prayer  followed  by  the  Lord's 

Prayer,  e.  g. : 

Eternal,  merciful  God,  we  pray  Thee,  extend  Thy  goodness 
and  mercy  unto  this  child  who  now  asks;  open  the  door  to 
him  who  knocks,  that  he  may  enjoy  the  everlasting  blessing  of 
Thy  heavenly  washing,  and  may  come  to  the  eternal  kingdom 
which  Thou  hast  prepared  through  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Or:  — 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Thou  hast  commanded  us  to  bring 
the  little  children  unto  Thee,  and  promised  to  receive  them.  Gra- 
ciously receive  this  child  for  Thy  mercy's  sake.    Amen. 

Lord's  Prayer. 

In   urgent  cases   the  Minister  may  say. 

By  the  command  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  firmly  be- 
lieving His  comforting  promise,  I  baptize  thee,  N.,  in  the.  name 
of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

Then  may  the  Minister  san  the  Lord's  Prayer  (if  it   was   not  used   before)  and 
the  Creed,  closing  tcith: 

Almighty  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who 
hath  begotten  thee  again  of  water  and  the  Spirit,  and  hath 
forgiven  thee  all  thy  sins,  strengthen  thee  with  His  grace  unto 
life  everlasting.    Amen. 

Peace  be  with  thee,    f     Amen. 

1  in'KGY    AND    AGK.NUA  5 


66  BAPTISM. 

Then  may  the  Minister  intercede  for  the  child: 

Gracious  Father  in  heaven,  let  Thy  grace  be  manifested  upon 
this  child,  now  committed  to  Thee,  whom  Thou  lovest  far  more 
than  his  earthly  parents  do.  Do  now  unto  him,  we  pray  Thee, 
according  to  Thy  good  pleasure.  Not  our  will,  dear  Father,  but 
Thy  will  be  done.  If  Thou  wilt  spare  his  life,  grant  that  he 
may  grow  in  grace  to  the  glory  of  Thy  name  and  the  joy  of 
his  parents.  If  it  should  please  Thee  to  remove  him  from  this 
world  into  the  heavenly  home,  we  will  still  praise  Thy  holy 
name.  Thou  hast  redeemed  him,  Thou  faithful  Lord;  into  Thy 
hands  we  commit  his  spirit.    Amen. 

2.    CONFIRMATION  OF  LAY-BAPTISM. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord:  This  child,  on  account  of  extreme 
illness,  hath  received  emergency  baptism.  But  God  the  Lord,  in 
His  great  mercy,  hath  preserved  his  life,  and  we  have  come 
here  to  be  assured  by  public  confirmation  in  due  Christian  order, 
that  this  child  hath  been  baptized  properly,  and  in  accordance 
with  the  Word  of  God,  and  that  his  Baptism  was  a  valid,  Chris- 
tian, saving  Baptism.  I  therefore  ask  you,  in  the  presence  of 
God,  to  answer  the  following  questions :  — 

Hath  this  child  been  baptized? 

Answer:    Yes. 

By  whom  was  he  baptized? 

Answer:    N.  baptized  the  child. 

With  what  was  he  baptized? 

Answer:    With  water. 

With  what  words  was  he  baptized? 

Answer.-  With  the  words,  "I  baptize  thee  in  the  name  of 
the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost." 

Are  you  sure  that  the  words  were  used  in  accordance  with 
Christ's  command? 

Answer:    Yes,  we  are  sure. 

Who  was  present  at  the  time? 

Answer:    N.  and  N.  were  present. 

Do  you  testify  that  all  was  done  as  is  here  said? 

Answer:    Yes. 

What  name  did  the  child  receive  in  baptism  ? 

Answer:    The  name  N.  N. 


BAPTISM.  1,7 

When   the  child   has   r.ut   been    named,   the   Minuter   tays: 

How  shall  this  child  be  named  ? 

Answer:    It  is  to  be  named  N.  -V. 

Forasmuch,  then,  as  you  have  done  tins  in  the  name  ind 
upon  the  command  of  our  Lord,  you  have  done  what  was  meet 
and  right ;  for  little  children  need  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  who  also  graciously  encouraged  the  bringing  of  them  to 
Him,  as  we  are  comfortably  assured  in  the  tenth  chapter 
Gospel  according  to  St.  Mark,  where  it  saith :  '"And  they  brought 
young  children  to  Him  that  He  should  touch  them.  And  His 
disciples  rebuked  those  that  brought  them.  But  when  Jesus  saw 
ir.  He  was  much  displeased  and  said  unto  them,  Sutler  the  little 
children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid  them  not ;  for  of  such 
is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Verily,  I  say  unto  you,  Whosoever  shall 
not  receive  the  kingdom  of  God  as  a  little  child,  he  shall  not 
enter  therein.  And  He  took  them  up  in  His  arms,  put  His 
hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them."     (Mark   10,   13 — L6.) 

From  these  words  of  the  Lord  Jesus  we  may  be  confident 
that  this  child  also  hath  been  received  into  the  kingdom  of 
grace.  Let  us,  therefore,  pray  that  it  may  be  kept  steadfast  in 
the  same  unto  eternal  salvation. 

Tli,:  Minister,  laying  his  hand  upon   the  head  of  the  child,  shall  then  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven ,  Hallowed  be  Tin'  name ; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us ;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  almighty  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
who  hath  begotten  thee  again  of  water  and  the  Spirit,  and  hath 
forgiven  thee  all  thy  sins,  strengthen  thee  with  His  grace  unto 
everlasting  life.    Amen. 

Peace  be  with   thee,    f     Amen. 

Let  us  pray. 

0  almighty  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  we 
thank  Thee  that  Thou  didst  receive  this  child  into  Thy  favor, 
and  beseech  Thee  to  strengthen  him  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
he  may  grow  and  increase  in  the  new  life  to  which  Thou  hast 
begotten  him  again.     Grant  unto  his  parents  and  us  all,  to  this 


gg  BAPTISM. 

end  faithfully  to  serve  Thee  in  this  child,  that,  as  a  living 
member  of  Thy  Church,  he  may  bring  forth  much  fruit  to  the 
praise  and  honor  of  Thy  holy  name,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

If   the  Minister   be   uncertain   whether    the  child   has    been   baptized,   he   shall 
baptize  it  according   to    the  common  Form. 

3.    THE  BAPTISM  OF  ADULTS. 

When  an  adult  person  is  baptized,  it  is  not  necessary  for  him  to  receive 
Confirmation. 

There  may  be  held  an   Address  and  a  brief  Examination  of   the  person  to   be 
baptized,  and  then  the  Minister  may  say: 

Dearly  Beloved :  Our  Lord  and  Savior  said  to  Nicodemus : 
"Except  a  man  be  born  of  water  and  of  the  Spirit,  he  cannot  enter 
into  the  kingdom  of  God.  That  which  is  born  of  the  flesh  is 
flesh;  and  that  which  is  born  of  the  Spirit  is  spirit."  All  men, 
from  the  fall  of  Adam,  being  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  are  under 
the  wrath  of  God  and  must  have  been  lost  forever,  had  not  the 
Father  of  all  mercy  and  grace  given  His  only-begotten  Son  Jesus 
Christ  for  the  blotting  out  of  our  sins.  In  order  that  all  men 
might  come  to.  the  knowledge  of  the  truth  as  it  is  in  Christ 
Jesus,  He  has  entrusted  to  His  Church  the  means  of  grace  for 
our  salvation,  saying,  in  the  last  chapter  of  Matthew:  "Go  ye, 
and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost;  teaching  them  to 
observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded  you";  and 
again,  in  the  last  chapter  of  Mark:  "Go  ye  into  all  the  world, 
and  preach  the  Gospel  to  every  creature.  He  that  believeth  and 
is  baptized  shall  be  saved;  but  he  that  believeth  not  shall  be 
damned." 

Whereas,  then,  in  obedience  to  Christ's  command,  and  trust- 
ing in  His  promise,  after  due  instruction  in  the  principal  doc- 
trines of  the  Christian  religion,  this  present  person  desires  to 
be  baptized,  let  us  call  upon  our  heavenly  Father  to  grant  him 
all  the  promised  blessings  of  the  Sacrament. 

0  almighty  and  everlasting  God,  we  bless  Thee  for  Tin- 
great  mercy  in  calling  this  Thy  servant  unto  faith  in  Thee,  and 
we  beseech  Thee,  remove  from  him  all  blindness  of  heart,  and 
open  unto  him  the  gates  of  Thy  mercy,  that  by  the  washing 
of  regeneration  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  life  which 


BAPTISM.  6!) 

has  already  been  begun  in  him  may  be  increased,  strengthened, 

and  confirmed,  and  he  may  be  sealed  unto  eternal  life,  growing 
daily  in  grace,  fighting  the  good  fight  of  faith,  and  being  stead- 
fast and  unmovable  unto  the  end,  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy 
dear  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us 
our  trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil:  I ■'■■: 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

N.,  I  now  ask  thee  in  the  presence  of  God  and  these  wit- 
nesses to  answer  the  following  questions: 

Dost  thou  renounce  the  devil,  and  all  his  works,  and  all 
his  ways? 

Answer:    I  do. 

Dost  thou  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth? 

Dost  thou  believe  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our  Lord; 
Who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost;  Born  of  the  Virgin 
Mary;  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate;  Was  crucified,  dead,  and 
buried;  He  descended  into  hell,  The  third  day  He  rose  again 
from  the  dead:  He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the 
right  hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty;  From  thence  He  shall 
come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead? 

Dost   thou  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost;    The  holy   Christian 
Church,  the  communion  of  saints ;   The  forgiveness  of  sins ;    The 
resurrection  of  the  body;    And  the  life  everlasting? 
Answer :    I   do. 

Dost   thou   desire  to  be  baptized  into  this  Christian  faith? 
Answer:    I  do. 

Wilt    thou,   then,   continue   steadfast   in    the   true   Christian 
faith,   as   it   is  confessed  by  our   Evangelical   Lutheran   Church, 
and  lead  a  godly  life,  even  unto  the  end? 
Answer:    I  will,  with  the  help  of  God. 

Then   shall  the  person   to  be  baptized  kneel,  and   the  Minister  baptise  him    nith 
water,  faying: 

.V..  1  baptize  thee  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son.  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    f     Amen. 


70  CONFIRMATION. 

Then  the  Minister-,  laying  his  right  hand  on   the  head  of   the  person   baptized, 
shall  say: 

The  almighty  God  and  Father,  who  through  the  washing 
of  Holy  Baptism  hath  sealed  in  thee  the  new  birth  unto  eternal 
life,  and  hath  confirmed  to  thee  the  forgiveness  of  all  thy  sins 
unto  salvation,  strengthen  and  keep  thee  in  His  grace,  and, 
finally,  crown  thee  with  everlasting  glory.    Amen. 

In  the  name  of  the  Church  of  Christ,  I  also  invite  thee, 
as  a  baptized  and  instructed  member  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  to  participate  with  us  in  the  reception  of  the  Lord's 
Supper,  for  the  strengthening  of  thy  faith,  for  thy  furtherance 
in  holiness  of  life,  and  in  testimony  of  the  communion  of  faith. 

Peace  be  with  thee,    f     Amen. 

Let  us  pray. 

Heavenly  Father,  we  give  Thee  hearty  thanks  that  Thou 
hast  vouchsafed  to  call  us  to  the  knowledge  of  Thy  grace  and 
to  faith  in  The'e;  and  we  beseech  Thee,  increase  this  knowledge, 
and  confirm  this  faith  in  us  evermore.  Bestow  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
upon  this  person,  that,  being  born  again  and  made  an  heir  of 
everlasting  salvation  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  he  may  con- 
tinue Thy  servant  and  attain  Thy  promises;  through  the  same 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee, 
in  the  unity  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

The  service  may  then  he  closed  icith  the  singing  of  a  Hymn  and  the  Benediction. 


II.  dlonfirmatum. 


When  children  have  attained  such  a  knowledge  of  the  truths  of  the  Christian 
religion  as  are  contained  in  the  Catechism,  that,  pursuant  to  the  injunction  of 
St.  Paul,  1  Cor.  11,  28,  they  are  able  to  ewamine  themselves,  they  should  no 
longer  be  kept  from  the  Holy  Supper.  Before  they  receive  the  Holy  Sacrament, 
however,  they  should  be  examined  and  confirmed  in  the  presence  of  the  as- 
sembled   congregation. 

After  the  singing  of  a  Hymn,  the  Minister  may  introduce  the  Examination  by 
the  following  or  other  Address: 

Dearly  Beloved:  Holy  Baptism  is  the  washing  of  regenera- 
tion and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  which  God  shed  on  us 
abundantly  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Savior,  that,  being  jus- 
tified by  His  grace,  we  should  be  made  heirs  according  to  the 
hope  of  eternal  life.     Through  this  Sacrament  God  receives  little 


CONFIRMATION.  •  "  1 

children  into  His  covenant  and  kingdom  of  grace,  working  faith 
in  them,  and  making  them  members  of  Christ's  Church  and 
temples  of  His  Holy  Spirit. 

And  as  God  will  not  suffer  His  faithfulness  to  fail,  but 
keep  His  covenant  and  mercy,  even  so  He  says  to  each  of  His 
own:  "Be  thou  faithful  unto  death,  and  I  will  give  thee  a  crown 
of  life."  To  the  'end,  however,  that  this  purpose  of  God  may  be 
accomplished,  and  children  may  grow  in  grace  and  Christian 
knowledge  as  they  advance  in  years,  the  Lord  gave  command- 
ment, saying  to  parents  through  the  Apostle  Paul:  "Bring  up 
your  children  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord,"  and 
to  the  Church,  even  as  unto  Simon  Peter:    "Feed  My  lambs." 

In  accordance,  then,  with  Christ's  command,  children  are 
instructed  in  the  Christian  faith.  When  they  reach  an  age  of 
discretion  and  understand  the  covenant  entered  into  by  them  by 
the  grace  of  God  in  Holy  Baptism,  they  should  daily  give  their 
hearts  to  God,  and  let  their  eves  observe  His  wavs.  In  par- 
ticular,  being  able  to  examine  themselves  and  to  discern  the 
Lord's  body,  they  should  for  their  furtherance  in  grace  receive 
the   Sacrament   of   Holy   Communion   with  the  Church  of   God. 

To  encourage  such  growth  in  Christian  knowledge  and  faith, 
the  rite  of  Confirmation  is  maintained  in  the  Church.  The 
catechumens  publicly  moke  profession  of  the  true  faith  and 
pledge  themselves  anew  to  the  covenant  made  between  them  and 
God.  The  Christian  congregation,  or  Church,  the  dispenser  of 
God's  mysteries,  having  assured  itself  that  the  catechumens  pos- 
sess such  knowledge  of  Christian  doctrine  as  may  give  warrant 
of  their  worthily  eating  the  body  and  drinking  the  blood  of 
Christ,  invites  them  to  receive  the  Holy  Supper,  and,  with  the 
laying  on  of  hands,  prays  over  them  for  the  Holy  Spirit  of 
God,  that  they  may  grow  in  grace,  be  steadfast  and  unmovable 
in  their  profession,  become  fruitful  in  every  good  work,  and  in 
the  end  receive  the  crown  of  life. 

A  number  of  persons  have  here  presented  themselves  for  Con- 
firmation. We  shall  now  examine  them  in  the  chief  parts  of 
Christian  doctrine,  for  the  purpose  of  setting  forth  that  they 
understand   the  faitli   they   are  about   to   profess. 

Then  shall  the  Catechumens  be  briefly  examined 

A    Humn  of   Invocation   0/    the   Hob/   Ghost   man    then   be   suno,  followed   by   the 
Sermon. 


72  "  CONFIRMATION. 

Then  may   the  Minister  address    the   Catechumens    thus:  — 

Dearly  Beloved:  When  you  were  little  children,  [most  of] 
you  were  received  into  God's  covenant  of  grace  in  Holy  Baptism. 
And  now,  having  learned  the-  meaning  of  this  covenant  from 
your  instruction  in  the  Word  of  God,  you  are  gathered  here 
before  God  and  this  Christian  congregation  publicly  to  make  pro- 
fession of  your  faith  in  the  Triune  God,  and  to  renew  your 
covenant  with  Him,  to  dedicate  yourselves  body  and  soul  for 
time  and  for  eternity  to  your  God  and  Lord.  [Others  of  you. 
are  to  make  this  public  profession  and  promise  and  then,  in 
obedience  to  Christ's  command,  to  receive  the  Sacrament  of  Holy 
Baptism.]  Lift  up  your  hearts  with  me,  therefore,  to  the  God 
of  all  grace,  and  cheerfully  give  answer  to  what,  in  the  name  of 
the  Lord,  as  a  minister  of  His  holy  Church,  I  now  shall  ask  you. 

[When  adults  not  previously  baptized  present  themselves  for  Confirmation,  the 

Minister  may  say:  Dearly  Beloved,  inasmuch  as  you  have  been  in- 
structed in  Christian  doctrine  and  are  desirous  of  Baptism  and 
Confirmation,  I  now  call  upon  you  to  make  the  following  pro- 
fession   of    faith,  —  beginning  with  question  2  below.] 

1.  Do  you  this  day,  in  the  presence  of  God  and  of  this 
Christian  congregation,  renew  and  confirm  the  solemn  covenant 
which  at  your  Baptism  you  made  with  the  Triune  God? 

Answer:    We  do. 

2.  Do  you,  then,  renounce  the  devil,  and  all  his  works,  and 
all  his  ways? 

Answer.    We  do. 

3.  Do  you  believe  in  God  the  Father? 

Answer:  Yes,  we  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty, 
Maker  of  heaven  and  earth. 

4.  Do  you  believe  in  God  the  Son? 

Answer:  Yes,  we  believe  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our 
Lord;  Who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost;  Born  of  the 
Virgin  Mary;  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate;  Was  crucified, 
dead,  and  buried;  He  descended  into  hell;  The  third  day  He 
rose  again  from  the  dead;  He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sit- 
teth  on  the  right  hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty;  From 
thence  He  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 

5.  Do  you  believe  in  God  the  Holy  Ghost? 

Answer:     Yes,    we   believe    in   the   Holy    Ghost;    The   holy 


CONFIRMATION.  73 

Christian  Church,  the  communion  of  saints;  The  forgiveness  of 
sins ;    The  resurrection   of  the  body ;    And  the  life  everlasting. 

[6.  Do  you  desire  to  be  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutlieran 
Church  ? 

Answer:    We  do.] 

7.  Do  you  hold  all  the  books  of  the  Bible  to  be  the  in- 
spired Word  of  God,  and  the  doctrine  of  the  Evangelical  Lu- 
theran Church,  drawn  from  the  Bible,  as  you  have  learned  to 
know  it  from  Luther's  Small  Catechism,  to  be  the  true  and  cor- 
rect one? 

Answer:    We  do. 

8.  Do  you  also,  as  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  intend  to  continue  steadfast  in  the  confession  of  this 
Church,  and  suffer  all,  even  death,  rather  than  fall  away  from  it? 

Answer:    We  do  so  intend,  with  the  help  of  God. 

9.  Finally,  do  you  intend  faithfully  to  conform  all  your  life 
to  the  rule  of  the  divine  Word,  to  walk  as  it  becomcth  the 
Gospel  of  Christ,  and  in  faith,  word,  and  deed  to  remain  true 
to  the  Triune  God,  even  unto  death? 

Answer:    We  do  so  intend,  by  the  grace  of  God. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

Give  now  your  hand  at  the  Lord's  altar,  as  a  pledge  of 
your  promise,  and,  kneeling,  receive  His  blessing. 

Then  shall  the  Catechumens  come  forward,  one  by  one,  or  in  {/roups,  as  the 
Minister  may  have  appointed,  and,  giving  the  Minister  their  right   hand,  kneel 

doten   before   the  altar. 

Then  shall  the  Minister,  laying  his  hands  upon  each  one  separately,  pronounce 

the    Benediction,    adding    a    Scripture-passage    as    a    memorial    of   confirmation, 

saying:    .V.  N.: 

1.  God,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  give  thee  His 
Holy  Spirit,  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and  knowledge,  of  grace  <«n<l 
prayer,  of  power  and  strength,  of  sancti  neat  ion  and  the  fear  of 
God.    Amen. 

Or: 

2.  The  Father  in  heaven,  for  Jesus'  sake,  renew  and  in- 
crease in  thee  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  to  thy  strengthening 
in  faith,  to  thy  growth  in  grace,  to  thy  patience  in  suffering, 
and  to  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life.    Amen. 

•  Or: 

3.  The  God  of  all  grace,  who  hath  called  us  unto  His  eternal 
glory  by  Christ  Jesus,  make  thee  perfect,  stablish,  strengthen, 
settle  thee,  and  keep  thee  through  faith  unto  eternal  life.    Amen. 


74 


CONFIRMATION. 


Or: 

4.  The  God  of  peace  sanctify  thee  wholly;  and  may  thy 
whole  spirit  and  soul  and  body  be  preserved  blameless  unto  the 
coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

Or: 

5.  May  God,  who  hath  begun  the  good  work  in  thee,  per- 
form it  until  the  day  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

Then  the  Minister  shall  say: 

Upon  these  your  voluntary  professions  and  promises,  I,  in 
the  name  of  the  Church  of  Christ,  invite  and  welcome  you,  as 
members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  to  participate  with 
us  in  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  in  the  name  of  God  the  Father,  and  of  God  the  Son, 
and  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

The  Lord  bless  you,  and  keep  you. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  you,  and  be  gracious 
unto  you. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  you,  and  give  you 
peace.    Amen. 

Then  shdll  the  Minister  invite  the  Congregation  to  make  intercession,  as  follows: 

Since  it  is  God  alone  who  worketh  both  to  will  and  to  do 
of  His  good  pleasure,  it  behooveth  us,  dear  friends  in  Christ, 
to  call  upon  Him  for  these  young  members  of  this  Christian 
congregation,  that  He  would  graciously  perform  the  good  work 
which  He  hath  begun  in  them.  Let  us,  therefore,  [kneel  down 
and]   pray. 

r. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  makest  us  both  to  will 
and  to  do  those  things  which  are  good  and  acceptable  unto 
Thy  divine  Majesty,  we  make  our  humble  supplications  unto 
Thee  for  these  Thy  servants.  Let  Thy  fatherly  hand,  we  be- 
seech Thee,  ever  be  over  them,  let  Thy  Holy  Spirit  ever  be  with 
them;  and  so  lead  them  in  the  knowledge  and  obedience  of  Thy 
Word  that  in  the  end  they  may  obtian  everlasting  life,  through 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
liveth  and  reigneth,  ever, ,  one  God,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

2.' 
Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  and  praise  Thee  for 
Thy  great  goodness  in  bringing  these  Thy  servants  to  the  knowl- 
edge of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  and  the  truth  of  the  Gospel  -re- 


(  ...SFlBMATloN.  75 

waled  through  Him,  and  enabling  them  both  with  the  heart  to 
believe  and  with  the  mouth  to  confess  His  name.  We  also 
entreat  Thee  to  enlighten  and  strengthen  them  by  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  that  they  may  daily  increase  in  living  faith,  in  godly 
fear,  in  patience  under  trials,  in  true  knowledge  of  Thee,  and 
in  all  other  things  profitable  to  their  eternal  salvation.  Grant 
that,  bringing  forth  the  fruits  of  faith  and  love,  they  may  con- 
tinue steadfast  and  victorious  unto  the  day  when  all  who  have 
fought  the  good  fight  of  faith  shall  receive  the  crown  of  right- 
eousness, through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord,  who  liveth 
and  reigneth,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever,  one  God, 
world  without  end.    Amen. 

3. 
Almighty  and  ever-living  God,  we  thank  Thee  that  Thou' 
hast  brought  these  Thy  servants  to  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  in 
Holy  Baptism,  cleansed  them  by  His  blood,  and  buried  them 
with  Him  by  Baptism  into  His  death.  And  we  beseech  Thee, 
of  Thy  great  goodness,  to  renew  in  them  the  gift  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  that  their  hearts  may  be  filled  with  the  light  of  Thy 
Gospel.  Increase  in  them  pure  knowledge  and  tine  faith,  that 
they  may  firmly  believe  in  Thee,  the  only  true  God,  and  in 
Jesus  Christ,  whom  Thou  hast  sent,  and  ever  cleave  to  Thee 
with  steadfast  confidence.  Defend  them  from  the  power  of  dark- 
ness, and  establish  them  in  the  kingdom  of  Thy  Son,  wherein 
we  have  redemption  and  forgiveness  of  sins.  Fill  their  hearts 
and  minds  with  the  peace  of  Christ,  the  joy  of  the  Holy  Spirit, 
and  love  to  Thee  and  all  mankind.  Endow  them  plenteously 
with  the  gifts  of  Thy  heavenly  grace,  that  they  may  be  led  into 
all  truth,  mortify  the  deeds  of  the  flesh,  overcome  the  assaults 
and  temptations  of  the  Wicked  One,  and  serve  Thee  in  Thy 
Church  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  their  days ;  and  that, 
together  with  all  true  believers,  they  may,  with  joyful  hearts 
and  watchful  prayer,  and  in  soberness  and  godly  living,  hope 
and  wait  for  the  coming  of  the  Savior,  to  the  honor  of  Thy 
holy  name,  who  livest  and  reignest,  with  the  Son  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,   ever,   one  God,   world  without  end.    Amen. 

4. 
Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  the  Author  and  Finisher  of 
our   faith,    who,   of   Thine   infinite   mercy,   hast   added   to   Thy 
Chinch  these  Thy   servants  by  causing  them   to   be  born  again 


76 


CONFIRMATION. 


of  water  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  hast  given  them  knowledge 
of  their  redemption  in  Christ,  and  power  to  own  and  confess 
Thee  in  the  presence  of  Thy  people:  we  thank  Thee  for  the 
great  mercy  Thou  hast  been  pleased  to  show  them,  and  beseech 
Thee,  strengthen  them  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  daily  increase 
in  them  the  manifold  gifts  of  Thy  grace,  the  spirit  of  wisdom 
and  understanding,  the  spirit  of  counsel  and  might,  the  spirit 
of  knowledge  and  of  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  that  they  may  be 
kept  in  the  kingdom  and  covenant  of  Christ,  through  faith,  unto 
everlasting  life.  Fortify  them  against  the  assaults  of  sin.  Let 
not  Satan  prevail  against  them.  Keep  them  from  the  evil  that 
is  in  the  world.  Help  them  to  walk  in  the  Spirit,  that  they 
may  not  fulfil  the  lusts  of  the  flesh,  but  serve  Thee  in  holiness 
and  righteousness  all  their  days.  Defend  them  from  all  heresy 
and  schism,  from  all  apostasy  and  unbelief.  Make  them  faithful 
.  unto  death,  that  no  man  may  take  from  them  their  crown.  And 
grant  that,  continuing  steadfast  in  faith  and  hope,  they  may  at 
the  end  be  found  meet  to  be  partakers  of  the  inheritance  of 
the  saints  in  light;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord, 
who  liveth  and  reigneth,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever, 
one   God,   world   without   end.    Amen. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

Then  shall  be  sung  a  Hymn,  followed  by  the  Benediction. 


71 


III.  She  iBerryttmt  nf  Qtotnrort*. 

IV.  (Xhc  Smjrttiitt  nf  ttutmg  fUkmbwra. 

V.  Anmiuurrmrut  of  Examtmumrattmt 
aui»  nf  SUatoraitan. 

These  chapters  are  to  be  found  only  in  the  unabridged  edition  of  this  book 
Se<  pagi  s  SS6  to  3)0. 


VI.  fHarnage. 


First  Form. 

Dearly  Beloved:  Forasmuch  as  you  purpose  to  enter  upon 
the  holy  estate  of  matrimony,  which  is  to  be  held  in  honor  by 
all,  it  becometh  you  to  hear  what  the  Word  of  God  teacheth  con- 
cerning it. 

Know  ye,  therefore,  that  God  Himself  ordained  marriage 
when  He  said: 

"It  is  not  good  that  the  man  should  be  alone;  I  will  make 
him  an  help  meet  for  him.  And  the  Lord  God  caused  a  deep 
sleep  to  fall  upon  Adam,  and  lie  slept;  and  He  took  one  of 
his  ribs,  and  closed  up  the  flesh  instead  thereof;  and  the  rib 
the  Lord  God  had  taken  from  man  made  He  a  woman, 
and  brought  her  unto  the  man.  And  Adam  said,  This  is  now 
bone  of  my  bones,  and  flesh  of  my  flesh;  she  shall  be  called 
Woman,  because  she  was  taken  out  of  Man  Therefore  shall 
a  man  leave  his  father  and  his  mother,  and  shall  cleave  unto 
his  wife;    and  they  shall  be  one  flesh." 

Hear  also  what  God  hath  commanded  as  touching  the  con- 
duct of  spouses  toward  each  other: 

"Husbands,  love  your  wives,  even  as  Christ  also  loved  the 
Church,  and  gave  Himself  for  it,  that  He  might  sanctify  and 
cleanse  it  with  the  washing  of  water  by  the  Word,  that  He 
might  present  it  to  Himself  a  glorious  Church,  not  having  spot, 
or°wrinkle,  or  any  such  thing,  but  that  it  should  be  holy  and 
v.  ithout  blemish. 


78 

"So  ought  men  to  love  their  wives  as  their  own  bodies. 
He  that  loveth  his  wife  loveth  himself.  For  no  man  ever  yet 
hated  his  own  flesh,  but  nourisheth  and  cherisheth  it,  even  as 
the  Lord  the  Church. 

"Wives,  submit  yourselves  unto  your  own  husbands  as  unto 
the  Lord.  For  the  husband  is  the  head  of  the  wife,  even  as 
Christ  is  the  Head  of  the  Church;  and  He  is  the  Savior  of 
the  body.  Therefore,  as  the  Church  is  subject  unto  Christ,  so 
let  the  wives  be  unto  their  own  husbands  in  everything." 

Hear  also  the  cross  which  by  reason  of  sin  God  hath  laid 
upon  this  estate: 

"Unto  the  woman  He  said,  I  will  greatly  multiply  thy  sor- 
row and  thy  conception;  in  sorrow  thou  shalt  bring  forth  chil- 
dren; and  thy  desire  shall  be  to  thy  husband,  and  he  shall 
rule  over  thee.  And  unto  Adam  He  said,  Because  thou  hast 
hearkened  unto  the  voice  of  thy  wife,  and  hast  eaten  of  the 
tree  of  which  I  commanded  thee,  saying,  Thou  shalt  not  eat 
of  it:  cursed  is  the  ground  for  thy  sake;  in  sorrow  shalt  thou 
eat  of  it  all  the  days  of  thy  life;  thorns  also  and  thistles  shall 
it  bring  forth  to  thee,  and  thou  shalt  eat  the  herb  of  the  field; 
in  the  sweat  of  thy  face  shalt  thou  eat  bread  till  thou  return 
unto  the  ground;  for  out  of  it  wast  thou  taken;  for  dust  thou 
art,  and  unto  dust  shalt  thou  return." 

Nevertheless,  marriage  is  well-pleasing  to  God,  and  hath 
His  blessing;    for  it  is  written: 

"God  created  man  in  His  own  image,  in  the  image  of  God 
created  He  him;  male  and  female  created  He  them.  And  God 
blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them:  Be  fruitful,  and  mul- 
tiply, and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it;  and  have  dominion 
over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over 
every  living  thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth.  And  God  saw 
everything  that  He  had  made,  and,  behold,  it  was  very  good. 
Therefore  Solomon  also  saith:  Whoso  findeth  a  wife  findeth 
a  good  thing,  and  obtaineth  favor  of  the  Lord." 

The   Psalm,  also,  saith  of  the  man: 

"Blessed  is  every  one  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that  walketh 
in  His  ways.  For  thou  shalt  eat  the  labor  of  thine  hands. 
Happy  shalt  thou  be,  and  it  shall  be  well  with  thee.  Thy  wife 
shall  be  as  a  fruitful  vine  by  the  sides  of  thine  house;  thy 
children   like   olive   plants    about   thy   table.      Behold   that    thus 


79 


.hall  the  man  be  blessed  that  feareth  the  Lord  The  Lord  sha  1 
We  thee  out  of  Zion;  and  thou  shalt  see  the  good  of  Jeru- 
salem all  the  davs  of  thy  life.  Yea,  thou  shalt  see  thy  chil- 
dren's children,   and  peace  upon  Israel." 

Thus  God  hath  sanctified  marriage,  and  will  continue  to 
bless  therein  all  who  trust  in  Him  and  live  in  His  ear;  for 
Christ,  having  atoned  for  our  sin,  hath  hallowed  even  the  crosses 
of  those  who  believe  in  Him. 

Into  this  holy  estate  you  now  come  to  be  united    an?  that 

all  men  may  know  your  mutual  consent  in  holy  wedlock  to  have 

been  sincerelv  and  freely  given,  it  behooveth  you  to  declare    m 

the  presence 'of  these  witnesses,  the  sincere  intent  you  both  have. 

I   therefore  ask  you: 

V    wilt  thou  have  N.,  here  present,  to  be  thy  wedded  wie. 

Wilt  thou  love,  honor,  and  cherish  her,  and  keep  with  her  this 

bond  of  wedlock  holy  and  unbroken  till  death  you  do  part.     H 

so,  declare  it  before  God  and  these  witnesses  by  saying,  I  will. 

Answer:    I  will. 

N  wilt  thou  have  N.,  here  present,  to  be  thy  wedded  hus- 
band?" Wilt  thou  love,  honor,  cherish,  and  obey  him,  and  keep 
with  him  tins  bond  of  wedlock  holy  and  unbroken  till  death 
you  do  part?  If  so,  declare  it  before.  God  and  these  witnesses 
by  saving.  I  will. 
Answer:    I  will. 

If  thc  ,reMino-rin9  lc  use,,  the  Mister  »*™J*  ^\r?i.l£££ 
*<  Sffi-"  1  XC  —  S.  aJtlTl  £  say  after  *: 

Receive  this  ring  as  a  pledge  and  token  of  wedded  love 
and  faithfulness. 

If  two  ritujs  oc  used,  the  Minister  shaU  say: 

Exchange  rings  as  a  pledge  and  token  of  wedded  love  and 

faithfulness. 

Then  shall  the  Minister 

Join  youT  right  hands. 

Here   thc  Minister  may  duect   thc  man   to  say  after  him: 

I  V  in  the  presence  of  God  and  this  assembly,  take  thee. 
N  to  be"  my  wedded  wife,  and  plight  thee  my  troth  in  every 
duty,  not  to' part  from  thee  till  death  us  do  part. 


80  MARRIAGE. 

In  like  manner  may  the  woman  also  say  after  the  Minister: 

I,  N,,  in  the  presence  of  God  and  this  assembly,  take  thee, 
N.,  to  be  my  wedded  husband,  and  plight,  thee  my  troth  in 
every  duty,  not  to  part  from  thee  till  death  us  do  part. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

What  God  hath  joined  together,  let  no  man  put  asunder. 
And  forasmuch  as  N.  and  N\  have  consented  together  in  holy 
wedlock,  and  have  witnessed  the  same  before  God  and  this 
assembly,  I  pronounce  them  husband  and  wife,  in  the  name  of 
the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    f     Amen. 

The  persons  married  may   then  Jcneel  for  prayer,  and   the  Minister  shall  say: 
1. 

Almighty  God,  who  didst  create  man  and  woman,  and  didst 
join  them  together  in  marriage,  thereby  signifying  the  mystery 
of  the  union  betwixt  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  and  His  Bride,  the 
Church:  we  beseech  Thine  infinite  goodness,  let  not  this  Thy 
blessed  work  and  ordinance  be  set  aside  or  brought  to  naught, 
but  graciously  protect  and  preserve  it.  Especially  let  Thy  bless- 
ing rest  upon  these  Thy  servants;  so  rule  them  by  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  that  they  may  live  together  to  Thy  glory  and  to  their 
own  welfare  in  this  life  and  in  that  which  is  to  come.  Keep 
them  in  Thy  favor ,  and  bring  them  unto  everlasting  life ; 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


Lord,  our  God,  our  Helper  and  our  Comforter  in  time  and 
in  eternity,,  graciously  look  upon  these  Thy  servants,  who  ac- 
cording to  Thy  holy  ordinance  have  entered  the  covenant  of 
wedded  love  and  troth.  Do  Thou  bless  them,  and  so  guide  them 
by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  that  in  all  things  Thy  good  and  gracious 
will  may  be  done  in  them.  May  they  let  the  Word  of  Christ 
dwell  in  them  richly,  and  do  Thou  make  their  home  and  their 
hearts  Thy  dwelling-place.  Grant  that  their  souls  be  united  in 
Christ  Jesus  unto  one  mind  by  love,  and  may  their  mutual  true 
affection  never  know  doubt  or  change.  Do  Thou  bless  them  in 
each  other,  and  enable  them  in  wisdom  and  meekness  to  bear 
with  patience  each  other's  infirmities.  Prosper  the  work  of  their 
hands,  and  crown  their  lives  with  Thy  loving-kindness  and  tender 


MARKIAGE.  81 

mercies.  Let  even  their  crosses  and  afflictions  yield  them  the 
peaceable  fruit  of  righteousness  as  an  abiding  blessing,  and 
teach  them,  in  everything  by  prayer  and  supplication  with 
thanksgiving,  to  make  their  requests  known  unto  Thee.  And 
when  in  steadfast  faith  they  have  finished  their  pilgrimage  on 
earth,  give  them  a  dwelling-place  with  Thee  in  heavenly  joy; 
for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  lav  his  hands  upon  the  heads  of  the  two  and  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  Lord  bless  you,  and  keep  you. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  you,  and  be  gracious 
unto  you. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  you,  and  give  you 
peace.    Amen. 

Secoxd  Form. 

The  persons  to  be  married  liaring  presented  themselves  before  the  altar,  the 
man   on    the   right   hand   and    the  \coman   on   his   left,   the   Minister  shall  say: 

Dearly  Beloved:  We  are  assembled  here  in  the  presence  of 
God  and  these  witnesses  to  join  together  this  man  and  this 
woman  in  holy  matrimony,  which  was  instituted  by  God  for  the 
welfare  and  happiness  of  mankind,  blessed  by  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  likened  by  St.  Paul  to  the  mystical  union  subsisting 
between  Christ  and  His  Church,  and  is  to  be  held  in  honor 
among  all  men.  Wherefore  those  who  purpose  to  enter  this  holy 
estate  should  do  so  with  a  profound  sense  of  the  seriousness  of 
the  obligations  they  are  about  to  assume,  bearing  in  mind  that 
the  vow  and  covenant  once  made  may  not  be  broken,  and  duly 
and  devoutly  weighing  what  Holy  Scripture  teaches  concerning 
husbands  and  wives.  Our  Savior  has  declared  that  a  man  shall 
forsake  his  father  and  mother  and  cleave  unto  his  wife,  for 
they  twain  shall  be  one  flesh.  By  His  apostles  He  has  in- 
d  those  who  enter  into  wedlock  to  cherish  mutual  esteem 
and  love;    to  bear  with  each  other's,  infirmities  and  weaknesses; 

I  II  I  BGY    A.\'D    AGKSDA.  G 


82  MARRIAGE. 

to  comfort  each  other  in  sickness,  trouble,  and  sorrow;  in  honesty 
and  industry  to  provide  for  each  other. and  for  their  household 
in  temporal  things ;  to  pray  for  and  encourage  each  other  in 
the  things  which  pertain  to  God;  and  to  live  together  as  the 
heirs  of  the  grace  of  life. 

Or: 

Dearly  Beloved:  We  are  gathered  together  here  in  the  sight 
of  God  to  join  together  this  man  and  this  woman  in  holy  mat- 
rimony, which  is  commended  of  St.  Paul  to  be  honorable  among 
all  men,  and  therefore  is  not  by  any  to  be  entered  into  un- 
advisedly or  lightly,  but  reverently,  discreetly,  advisedly,  soberly, 
and  in  the  fear  of  God. 

These  two  persons  have  come  hither  to  be  made  one  in  this 
holy  estate.  If  there  be  any  here  present  who  can  show  just 
cause  why  they  may  not  lawfully  be  joined  in  marriage,  let  him 
now  speak,  or  ever  after  hold  his  peace. 

Forasmuch,  then,  as  nothing  has  been  shown  to  hinder  this 
marriage,  I  ask  you: 

N.,  wilt  thou  have  this  woman  [or,  N.,  here  present,]  to 
thy  wedded  wife,  to  live  together  after  God's  ordinance  in  the 
holy  estate  of  matrimony?  Wilt  thou  love  her,  comfort  her, 
honor  and  keep  her,  in  sickness  and  in  health,  and,  forsaking 
all  others,  keep  thee  only  unto  her  so  long  as  ye  both  shall  live? 

Answer:    I  will. 

N.,  wilt  thou  have  this  man  [or,  N.,  here  present,]  to  thy 
wedded  husband,  to  live  together  after  God's  ordinance  in  the 
holy  estate  of  matrimony?  Wilt  thou  love  him,  comfort  him, 
honor  and  keep  him,  in  sickness  and  in  health,  and,  forsaking 
all  others,  keep  thee  only  unto  him  so  long  as  ye  both  shall  live? 

Answer:    I  will. 

Then  the  Minister  may  say: 

Who  giveth  this  woman  to  be  married  to  this  man? 

Then  may  they  give  their  troth  to  each  other  in  this  manner.     The  father  or 

friend  of  the  woman  shall  put  her  right  hand  into   the  hand  of  the  Minister, 

who  shall  cause  the  man  with  his  right  hand  to  take  the  woman  by  her  right 

hand,  and  to  say  after  Mm: 

I,  N.,  in  the  presence  of  God  and  this  assembly,  take  thee, 
N.,  to  be  my  wedded  wife,  and  plight  thee  my  troth  in  every 
duty,  not  to  part  from  thee  till  death  us  do  part. 


Marriage.  hj 

Then  shall   thtu  louse  their  hands,  und  the  woman,   u  ith    her  righi   hand   taking 
the    man    by   his   right   hand,  shall    likewise   say   after   the  Minister: 

I,  X.,  in  the  presence  of  God  and  this  assembly,  take  thee, 
N.,  to  be  my  wedded  husband,  and  plight  thee  my  troth  in 
every  duty,  not  to  part  from  thee  till  death  us  do  part. 

Then  shall  they  again  loose  their  hands,  and  if  the  wedding-ring  be  used,  the 

Minister  shall  now  ask  for  it,  and,   taking  it,  he  shall  deliver  it   to   the  man, 

who  shall  then  put  it  on  the  fourth  finger  of  the  woman's   left  hand,  and  the 

Minister  shall  say,  and   the  man  may  say  after   him: 

Eeeeive  this  ring  as  a  pledge  and  token  of  wedded  love 
and  faithfulness. 

Or: 

With  this  ring  I  thee  wed,  N.,  in  the  name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

Or  the  Minister  may  say: 

In  token  of  your  vows  thus  mutually  "plighted  you,  N.,  give, 
and  you,  N.,  receive  the  wedding-ring. 

If   two  rings  be  used,  the  Minister  may  say: 

Exchange  rings  as  a  pledge  and  token  of  wedded  love  and 
faithfulness. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  join   their  right  hands,  saying: 

Join  your  right  hands.  Forasmuch  as  N.  and  N.  have-  con- 
sented together  in  holy  wedlock,  and  have  witnessed  the  same 
before  God  and  this  assembly,  [and  thereto  have  given  and 
pledged  their  troth,  each  to  the  other,]  and  have  declared  the 
same  (by  giving  and  receiving  a  ring,  and)  by  joining  hands: 
I  pronounce  them  husband  and  wife,  in  the  name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  f  Amen.  What,  there- 
fore, God  hath  joined  together,  let  no  man  put  asunder. 

The  persons   married   may   then   kneel  for  prayer,  and   the  Minister  shall   say: 

0  eternal  God,  Creator  and  Preserver  of  all  mankind,  Giver 
of  all  spiritual  grace,  the  Author  of  everlasting  life:  send  Thy 
blessing  upon  these  Thy  servants,  this  man  and  this  woman, 
whom  we  bless  in  Thy  name,  that,  living  faithfully  together, 
thev  may  surely  perform  and  keep  the  vow  and  covenant  be- 
twixt them  made,  and  may  ever  remain  in  perfect  love  and  peace 
together,  and  so  live  in  this  life  according  to  Thy  laws  that  in 
the  world  to  come  they  may  have  life  everlasting;  through  Jesus 
•Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Our   Father,  who  art  in  heaven;    Hallowed   be  Thy  name; 


84  ANNIVERSARY  OF  MARRIAGE. 

Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  Lord  bless  you,  and  keep  you. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  you,  and  be  gracious 
unto  you. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  you,  and  give  you 
peace.    Amen. 


VII.  Amuttfraarg  of  UtertagF. 


A  Hymn  of  Praise  may  be  sung. 
Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made  heaven 
and  earth.    Amen. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord:  These  Christian  spouses  appear  this 
day  before  the  Lord  to  renew  the  remembrance  of  that  covenant 
of  matrimony  which  was  made  between  them  twenty-five  (fifty) 
years  ago,  to  offer  to  the  Lord  the  sacrifice  of  thanksgiving  for 
all  the  mercies  and  all  the  truth  which  for  so  many  years  He 
hath  shown  unto  them  (and  their  family),  and  to  supplicate 
His  gracious  aid  for  the  portion  that  remaineth  of  their  days. 
In  order,  then,  that  this  solemnity  may  add  a  blessing  to  their 
lives  and  ours,  let  us  hear  the.  Word  of  God  as  it  is  written: 

Then  shall  a  Scripture-lesson  be  read,  e.  g.,  Ps.23  or  92. 

Let  us  pray. 

0  Thou  faithful  and  merciful  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who 
hast  instituted  the  estate  of  matrimony,  hallowed  it  by  the 
presence  of  Thy  Son  at  the  marriage  in  Cana  of  Galilee,  and 
protected  and  preserved  it  until  this  day:  we  thank  Thee  for 
Thy  goodness,  and  heartily  beseech  Thee,  Thou  wouldst  ever- 
more maintain  Thine  ordinance  by  Thy  gracious  and  almighty 
presence,  and  grant  unto  these,  and  all  others  united  in  mar- 
riage, peace  and  unity,  and  comfort  and  hope  in  the  day  of 
trouble;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


ANNIVERSARY   OF   MARRIAGE. 

Then  may  another  Hymn  be  sung. 
Then  shall  follow  a  short  Address.  (For  the  Address  one  of  the  M'<^  **» 
mou  be  used;  Qe».V,10;  l  haT.JIi  ■'■  Sam.  7,  18;  Job  10. 12;  Ps.J.l.Z. 
TAol  Ps^o.io;  P,.ll.i7.ii;  Ps.02.lS;  Ps.  H5.13.15;  Pa.  IX.  5;  Prov. 
ic.  16 ;  Prov.  17,  G ;  Is.  #,  * ;  Zech.  3.4;  1  Cor.  15, 19.) 
Beloved  in  the  Lord:  Inasmuch  as  God,  of  His  bountiful 
goodness,  hath  permitted  you  to  live  together  in  holy  wedlock 
these  twenty-five  (fifty)  years,  to  share  with  each  other  both 
joy  and  sorrow,  in  love  and  faithfulness  that  may  not  be  broken, 
so  that  you  are  able  to  celebrate  this  day  of  thanksgiving:  you 
heartily  desire  to  commit  also  the  remainder  of  your  days  to 
His  gracious  care,  and  humbly  to  implore  His  blesssing.  Join 
your  right  hands,  therefore,  and  with  devout  and  believing  hearts 
receive  the  divine  benediction. 

Then  may  the  celebrating  couple  kneel,  and  the  Minister,  laying  his  right  hand 
upon    their    hands,   shall    say:  — 

May  the  merciful  God  and  Father,  who  hath  hitherto  sus- 
tained and  blessed  you  by  His  grace  in  your  wedded  life,  grant 
unto  you  the  continuance  of  His  divine  protection  and  blessing, 
and  cause  your  hearts  to  remain  united  in  faithful  love  onto 
the  end.    Amen. 

Peace  be  with  you.    Amen. 

Let  us  pray. 

0  almighty  God,  most  merciful  Father,  we  bless  and  praise 
Thee  for  all  Thy  loving-kindness  and  tender  mercies  which,  for 
so  many  years,  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon  these  Thy  servants, 
providing  for  them  by  Thy  bounty,  defending  them  by  Thy 
power,  and  guiding  them  by  Thy  mercy.  We  beseech  Thee,  let 
the  sacrifice  of  thanksgiving  which  they  offer  to  Thee  be  ac- 
ceptable in  Thy  sight,  and  give  ear  to  their  humble  requests. 
Durin?  the  days  which  still  remain  of  their  pilgrimage  on  earth, 
even  to  their  old  age,  be  Thou  their  Strength  and  their  De- 
liverer in  every  infirmity  and  peril  of  body  and  soul.  Let  them 
at  all  times  know  the  comfort  and  peace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit. 
Be  Thou  with  them,  and  fulfil  in  them  (and  their  family)  Thy 
promise,  that  the  house  of  the  righteous  shall  stand,  and  the 
tabernacle  of  the  upright  shall  flourish  forevermore.  And  finally, 
let  them  depart  this  life  in  joy  and  peace,  and  with  rejoicing 
meet  in  Thy  heavenly  kingdom,  to  laud  and  praise  Thee,  with 
the  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

Go  your  way,  then,  beloved  in  Christ,  whom  we  have  blessed 


S6  LESSONS  AND  PRAYERS  FOR  THE  SICK  AND  THE  DYING. 

in  the  name  of  the  Lord  and  commended  to  His  gracious  keeping. 
May  your  hearts  continue  to  be  united  in  love  and  truth,  and 
your  home  to  be  a  dwelling-place  of  the  Lord,  that,  at  the  end 
of  your  sojourning  here  on  earth,  you  may  together  see  God 
face  to  face,  and  enjoy  that  glory  which  He  hath  promised  unto 
all  who  abide  in. true  faith  unto  the.  end.    Amen. 

Then  may  another  Hymn  be  sung. 
Then  shall  the  Minister  pronpunce  the  Bcnertu  tion. 


Vila.  EfflBOttfl  ana  ipragrrfi  for  tl??  &irk  anb 
tlj?  IgtttiL 


1.    AFFLICTIONS  AND  THEIR  USES. 
Lessons. 
Ps.  .30  ;  Matt.  8,  1—13 ;  John  5, 1—14  ;  Heb.  12,  1— 11 ;  James 
1,2—12;   1  Pet.  1,  3—25. 

Sentences.  ' 

Behold,  happy  is  the  man'  whom  God  correcteth ;  therefore 
despise  not  thou  the  chastening  of  the  Almighty.    Job  5,  17. 

For  whom  the  Lord  loveth  He  correcteth,  even  as  the  father 
the  son  in  whom  he  delighteth..   Prov.  3,  12. 

Behold,  I  have  refined  thee:  I  have  chosen  thee  in  the  furnace 
of  affliction.    Is.  48, 10. 

My  thoughts  are  not  your. thoughts,  neither  are  your  ways  My 
ways,  saith  the  Lord.  For  as  the  heavens  are  higher  than  the 
earth,  so  are  My  ways  higher  than  your  ways,  and  My  thoughts 
than  your  thoughts.   Is.  55,  8.  9. 

I  have  loved  thee  with  an  everlasting  love;  therefore  with 
loving-kindness  have  I  drawn  thee.   Jer.  31,3. 

For  our  light  affliction,  which  is  but  for  a  moment,  worketh 
for  us. a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory;  while  we 
look  not  at  the  things  which  are  seen,  but  at  the  things  which  are 
not  seen.  2  Cor,  4, 17. 18. 

Behold,  I  stand  at  the  door  and  knock.  If  any  man  hear  My 
voice  and  open  the  door,  I  will  come  in  to  him,  and  will  sup  with 
him,  and  he  with  Me.   Rev.  3,20. 

Humble  yourselves,  therefore,. under  the  mighty  hand  of  God, 


LESSONS  AND  PRAYERS   FOR  THE   SICK   AND  THE   DYING. 


87 


that  He  may  exalt  you  in  due  time :  casting  all  your  care  upon  Him  ; 
for  He  eareth  for  you.    1  Pet.  5,  6.  7. 

As  many  as  I  love  I  rebuke  and  chasten;  be  zealous  there- 
fore and  repent.    Rev.  3, 19. 

Prayers. 

Lord  God,  heavenly  Father,  it  hath  pleased  Thee  to  visit  me 
with  bodily  infirmities.  I  know  that  Thy  love  and  grace  will  not 
permit  anything  to  come  upon  me  unless  it  is  for  my  good  and 
blessing.  0  grant  that  I  may  rightly  receive  Thy  visitation,  and 
that  my  sickness  may  be  to  Thine  honor  and  glory,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  my  Lord  and  Savior.     Amen. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  the  Consolation  of  the  sor- 
rowful, and  the  Strength  of  the  weak:  let  my  prayer  in  tabulation 
and  my  cry  in  distress  graciously  come  before  Thee,  so  that  I  may 
see  and  receive  Thy  promised  help  and  comfort  and  deliverance, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  who  is  my  Savior  and  my  Lord.    Amen. 

0  Cord  Jesus,  who  hast  made  it  my  lot  to  bear  the  cross,  give 
me  also  an  obedient  and  submissive  heart,  that  I  may  joyfully  take 
Thy  yoke  upon  me,  and  willingly  follow  Thee  in  every  affliction. 
Amen. 

Verses. 


Beloved,    "It   is   well!" 

God's   ways   are   always   right; 

And    perfect    love   is   o'er   them   all, 

Though   far   above   our   sight. 

Beloved,    "It    is   well!" 

Though  de<p  and  sore  the  smart, 

The  hand  that  wounds  knows  how- 
to   hind 

And   heal   the   broken   heart. 

Beloved,    "It    is   well!" 

Though    sorrow    olouds    our   way. 

Twill  only  make  the  joy  more  dear 

That   ushers  in  the  day. 

Beloved,   "It    is  well!" 

The  path  that  Jesus  trod, 

Though  rough  and  strait  and  dark 
it  be, 

Leads  home  to  heav'n  and  God. 


Judge  not  the  Lord  by  feeble  sense, 
But   trust  Him  for  His  grace; 
Behind   a    frowning  Providence 
He  hides  a  smiling  face, 


His    purposes   will    ripen    fast, 
Unfolding   every    hour; 
The   bud   may   have  a   bitter   tast>', 
But   sweet  will  be  the  flower. 

Blind  unbelief  is  sure  to  err, 
And  scan.  His  work  in  vain: 
God  is  His  own  interpreter, 
And  He  will  make  it  plain. 


Whatever  God  ordains  is  good. 
His  loving  thought  attends  me; 
No  poisoned  draught  the  cup  can  !>•• 
That  my  Physician  Bends  me, 
But  medicine  due;    For  God  is  true. 
Of  doubt,  then,  I'll  divest  me, 
And  on  His  goodness  rest  me. 

Whatever  God  ordains  is  good. 
My  Life,  my  Light  can  never 
Intend  me  harm;    then,  to  His  care 
I  give  myself  forever 
In  weal  or  woe;    For  well  I  know, 
I  once  shall  see  quite  clearly 
That  God  did   love  me  dearly. 


88  LESSONS  AND  PRAYERS  FOR  THE  SICK  AND  THE  DYING. 

2.    REPENTANCE  AND  ASSURANCE  OF  FORGIVENESS. 

Lessons. 

Psalms  32,  51,  130,  25,  77;  Matt.  9,  1—8,  Luke  7,  36—50. 
15,  1—10.  11—32. 

Sentences. 

Seek  ye  the  Lord  while  He  may  be  found  ;  call  upon  Him  while 
He  is  near.  Let  the  wicked  forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighteous 
man  his  thoughts ;  and  let  him  return  unto  the  Lord,  and  He  will 
have  mercy  upon  him,  and  to  our  God,  for  He  will  abundantly 
pardon.    Is.  55,  6.  7. 

Know,  therefore,  and  see  that  it  is  an  evil  thing  and  bitter, 
that  thou  hast  forsaken  the  Lord,  thy  God,  and  that  My  fear  is 
not  in  thee,  saith  the  Lord  God  of  hosts.   Jer.  2, 19. 

Remember,  0  Lord,  Thy  tender  mercies  and  Thy  loving- 
kindness  ;  for  they  have  been  ever  of  old.  Remember  not  the  sins 
of  my  youth,  nor  my  transgressions;  according  to  Thy  mercy 
remember  Thou  me  for  Thy  goodness'  sake,  0  Lord.    Ps.  25,  6.  7. 

For  the'  mountains  shall  depart,  and  the  hills  be  removed, 
but  My  kindness  shall  not  depart  from  thee,  neither  shall  the 
covenant  of  My  peace  be  removed,  saith  the  Lord,  that  hath  mercy 
on  thee.   Is.  54, 10. 

Surely,  He  hath  borne  our  griefs,  and  carried  our  sorrows. 
He  was  wounded  for  our  transgressions,  He  was  bruised  for  our 
iniquities:  the  chastisement  of  our  peace  was  upon  Him;  and  with 
His  stripes  we  are  healed.    Is.  53,4.  5. 

Come  unto  Me,  all  ye  that  labor  and  are  heavy  laden,  and 
I  will  give  you  rest.  Take  My  yoke  upon  you,  and  learn  of  Me, 
for  I  am  meek  and  lowly  in  heart;  and  ye  shall  find  rest  unto  your 
souls.  For  My  yoke  is  easy,  and  My  burden  is  light.  Matt.  11. 
28—30. 

Behold  the  Lamb  of  God,  which  taketh  away  the  sin  of  the 
world.   John  1,  29 

God  so  loved  the  world  that  He  gave  His  only-begotten  Son, 
that  whosoever  believeth  in  Him  should  not  perish,  but  have  ever- 
lasting life.   John  3, 16. 

Neither  is  there  salvation  in  any  other;  for  there  is  none  other 
name  under  heaven  given  among  men  whereby  wc  must  be  saved. 
Acts  4,  1.2. 

God  commendeth  His  love  toward  us,  in  that,  while  we  were 


LESSONS   AND   PRAYERS   FOR  THE   SICK    AND   THB    DYING.  89 

yet  sinners,  Christ  died  for  us.     Where  sin  abounded,  grace  did 
much  more  abound.    Rom.  5,  8.  20. 

This  is  a  faithful  Baying  and  worthy  of  all  acceptation,  that 

Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save  sinners.   1  Tim.  1, 15. 

The  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  cleanseth  us  from  all  sin.  1  John  1,  7. 

Prayers. 

0  almighty  God.  merciful  Father,  I,  a  poor,  miserable  sinner, 
confess  unto  Thee  all  my  sins  and  iniquities,  with  which  I  have 
offended  Thee,  and  merited  temporal  and  eternal  punishment.  I  am 
heartily  sorry  for  them,  and  sincerely  repent  of  them,  and  I  pray 
Thee  for  the  sake  of  Thine  infinite  mercy  and  for  the  sake  of  the 
holy,  innocent,  and  bitter  sufferings  and  death  of  Thy  beloved  Son, 
Jesus  Christ,  to  be  gracious  and  merciful  to  me,  a  poor,  sinful 
being.     Amen. 

0  Lord  God,  most  merciful  Father,  through  Christ,  Thy  Son, 
Thou  hast  bestowed  on  me  Thy  grace,  and  in  Thy  Word  and  through 
Thy  Sacraments  Thou  hast  assured  me  that,  though  the  mountains 
should  depart  and  the  hills  be  removed,  Thy  kindness  shall  not 
depart  from  me,  and  the  covenant  of  Thy  peace  shall  not  be  removed. 
0  most  faithful  Father,  I  did  often  forget  Thee  and  neglect  Thy 
covenant;  yet  Thou  didst  never  forget  me,  but  graciously  didst 
receiye  me  anew.  I  pray  Thee,  have  mercy  on  me  now.  Comfort 
my  heart  with  the  assurance  that  in  sickness  and  distress  I  am  .-till 
Thy  dear  child.  Grant  me  Christian  steadfastness,  that  I  may 
hear  my  burden  and  await  Thy  help.  Thou  art  my  God.  Let  this 
be  my  comfort  in  life  and  death.     Amen. 

Lord  Jesus,  my  dear  Savior,  how  graciously  dost  Thou  call 
those  that  labor  and  are  heavy  laden  unto  Thee  to  give  them  rest. 
Behold,  I  am  one  that  labors  and  is  heavy  laden  with  sickness  and 
misery,  sin  and  iniquity;  so,  0  Lord,  fulfil  Thy  promise  and  give 
me  rest.  Take  away  my  pain  and  restlessness,  and  help  me.  Above 
all,  refresh  my  poor  soul  with  the  forgiveness  of  sins.  Take  away 
from  me  the  burden  of  my  sins,  and  strengthen  in  me  the  faith 
that  Thou  hast  redeemed  me,  and  hast  reconciled  me  to  Holy  God, 
so  that  I  may  partake  of  the  everlasting  rest  before  Thy  throne. 
Amen. 

Dear  God  and  Father,  my  days  are  in  Thy  hand.  Do  with 
me  as  it  pleaseth  Thee.  Only  be  gracious  unto  me  for  Christ's 
sake.    Thou  knowest  all  my  sins,  which  increase  the  anguish  of  my 


90 


LESSONS   AND   l'KAYEKS   KoR   THE   SICK   AND  THE   DVINO. 


heart,  but  Thou  also  knowest  my  Savior,  who  has  atoned  for  my 
sins  with  His  blood.  Graciously  accept  this  ransom  for  my  sins, 
and  give  me  the  divine  assurance  through  faith  that  Thou  art 
gracious  unto  me,  and  that  at  the  end  I  will  most  certainly  he  saved 
through  Jesus  Christ,  my  Savior.     Amen. 


I   lay  my  sins  on  Jesus, 
The  spotless   Lamb  of  God; 
He  bears  them  all  and  frees  us 
From  the  accursed   load. 

I   lay  my  griefs  on  Jesus, 
My   burdens  and  my  cares; 
He   from  them  all   releases, 
He  all  my  sorrows  shares. 


Verses. 

Now  my  conscience  is  at  ease, 
Now  I  fear  no  condemnation. 
He  who  grants  me   full   release 
Hath  atoned  for  my  transgression; 
In  true  faith  to  Him  I  cleave  — 
Jesus  sinners  doth  receive!" 


I,  a  sinner,  come  to  Thee, 

And    acknowledge    my    transgres 

sion; 
Tender  mercy   show   to  me, 
Grant  me  graciously  remission ; 
Let  these  words  my   soul   relieve: 
"Jesus  sinners  doth   receive!" 


Not  the  labors  of  my  hands 
Can   fulfil   Thy  Law's  demands. 
Could  my  zeal  no  respite  know, 
Could   my   tears   forever  flow, 
All  for  sin  could  not  atone: 
Thou  must  save,  and  Thou  alone! 


3.    PATIENCE  UNDER  SUFFERING   AND  TRUST  IN 


Psalms  27,  4 
Rom.  8,  18—30;  2  Cor.  1,3 


GOD'S  HELP. 

Lessons. 
02,  91,  121;   Matt.  7, 


■11;   Acts 


1—10: 


4,  7—18. 


Sentences. 

Commit  thy  way  unto  the  Lord ;  trust  also  in  Him ;  and 
He  shall  bring  it  to  pass.   Ps.  37,  5. 

Call  upon  Me  in  the  day  of  trouble:  I  will  deliver  thee,  and 
thou  shalt  glorify  Me.    Ps.  50,  15. 

Why  art  thou  cast  down,  0  my  soul  ?  and  why  art  thou  dis- 
quieted within  me?  Hope  thou  in  God;  for  I  shall  yet  praise 
Him,  who  is  the  health  of  my  countenance  and  my  God.   Ps.  42, 11. 

Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  Thee?  And  there  is  none  upon 
earth  that  I  desire  beside  Thee.  My  flesh  and  my  heart  faileth; 
but  God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart  and  my  portion  forever. 
Ps.  73,  25.  26. 

They  that  wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew  their  strength;   they 


LESSON?   AND   PRAYEKS    FOR   TFIE   SICK    AND  THE   DYING. 


91 


shall  mount  up  with  wings  as  eagles;    they  shall  run  and  not  be 
weary,  and  they  shall  walk  and  not  faint.   Is.  40,  31. 

Fear  thou  not,  for  I  am  with  thee;  he  not  dismayed,  for  I  am 
thy  God:  I  will  strengthen  thee,  yea,  I  will  help  thee;  .yea,  T  will 
uphold  thee  with  the  right  hand  of  My  righteousness.   Ls.  II.  10. 

He  that  shall  endure  unto  the  end,  the  same  shall  be 
(Matt.  24, 13) ;   rejoicing  in  hope,  patient  in  tribulation,  continu- 
ing instant  in  prayer  (Rom.  12, 12). 

He  hath  said,  I  will  never  leave  thee  nor  forsake  thee,  so  that 
wo  may  boldly  say,  The  Lord  is  my  Helper,  and  I  will  nol  fear. 
Heb.  13,5.6. 

Prayers. 

0  Lord,  my  God,  Thou  knowest  all  my  troubles,  nor  is  it  hidden 
from  Thee  how  restless  and  cast  down  my  soul  frequently  is. 
Help  me,  I  pray  Thee,  that  I  may  also,  as  the  psalmist,  call  on 
Thee  and  from  the  depth  of  my  heart  hope  and  trust  in  Thee. 
Thou,  0  God,  art  my  God,  my  Help  and  my  Hope  from  my  youth. 
With  Thee  nothing  is  impossible.  Thou  art  able  according  to  Thy 
mercy  to  turn  my  sickness..  If  it  is  good  for  me,  do  so.  I  wholly 
trust  in  Thee  and  wait  for  Thee.  And  I  shall  yet  praise  Thee  who 
art  the  health  of  my  countenance  and  my  God.     Amen. 

0  most  faithful  God,  I  flee  again  unto  Thee.  I  have  none 
besides  Thee  to  whom  I  might  turn  in  my  distress.  Thou  knowest 
my  tribulations,  and  Thy  fatherly  heart  has  pity  on  me.  It  might 
perhaps  appear  as  though  now  Thou  hadst  hidden  Thy  face  from 
me,  and  Thy  mercy  might  seem  to  have  an  end.  And  I  confess  that 
I  fully  deserve  Thy  chastisement  and  am  not  worthy  of  Thy  help. 
Yet  I  am  thy  child,  saved  by  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ.  Oh,  there- 
fore, for  Christ's  sake,  I  pray  Thee,  have  mercy  on  me  and  help  me. 
Strengthen  me  through  Thy  Spirit,  that  patiently  I  may  await 
the  hour  when  it  shall  please  Thee  to  deliver  me  from  my  distress 
either  for  the  present  life  or  for  the  life  to  come,  according  to  Thy 
will.     Hear  me  for  Jesus'  sake.     Amen. 

Lord  Jesus  Christ,  give  me  at  all  times  a  patient  spirit,  willing 
and  ready  to  wait  and  pray,  that  I  may  not  be  weary  of  Thy  chasten- 
ing, but  cast  my  care  upon  Thee  with  all  cheerfulness  and  con- 
fidence, and  ever  hope  for  the  besi  from  Thee,  who  livest  and 
reignest  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost  forever  and  ever. 
Amen. 

0  Lord,  heavenly  Father,  Thou  art  a  faithful  God,  and  suf- 


93 


lessons  and  prayers  for  the  sick  and  the  i>yin< 


ferest  not  any  one  to  be  tempted  .above  tbat  lie  is  able  to  bear: 
T  beseecb  Thee  in  my  sickness  and  in  my  affliction  and  pain,  that 
Thou  wouldst  not  suffer  the  cross  to  be  too  heavy  upon  me. 
Strengthen  me  that  I  may  bear  it  with  patience,  and  nevermore 
despair  of  Thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  my  Lord  and  Savior.    Amen. 

Verses. 

but    suffer    God    to   guide 


If    Thou 

thee, 
And  hope  in   Him  through  all   thy 

ways, 
He'll    give    thee    strength,   whate'er 

betide  thee, 
And   bear   thee   through    the   evil 

days; 
Who    trusts    in    God's    unchanging 

love 
Builds  on  the  Rock  that  naught  can 

move- 
Only  be  still  and  wait  His  leisure 
In  cheerful  hope  with  heart  content, 
To    take    whate'er    thy     Father's 

pleasure 
And  all  discerning  love  hath  sent; 
Nor    doubt    our    inmost    wants    are 

known 
To  Him  who  chose  us  for  His  own. 


What  a   Friend   we  have   in  Jesus, 
All   our  sins  and  griefs  to  bear, 
What  a  privilege  to  carry 
Everything  to  God  in  prayer! 


Oh,   what   peace   we   often    forfeit, 
Oh,  what  needless   pain   wc   bear, 
All   because  we  do  not  carry 
Everything  to  God   in   prayer. 


I    leave   all    things   to   God's   direc- 
tion, 
He  loveth  me   in  weal  and   woe; 
His  will  is  good,  true  His  affection, 
With    tender    love    his    heart    doth 

glow. 
My   Fortress  and  my   Rock  is  He: 
What   pleaseth   God,   that   pleaseth 
me. 


Oh!   for  a  faith  that  will  not  shrink, 
Though  pressed  by  many  a  foe; 
That  will  not  tremble  on  the  brink 
Of   poverty  or  woe; 

That  will  not  murmur  nor  complain 
Beneath    the   chastening   rod, 
But   in   the  hour  of  grief  or  pain 
Can  lean  upon  its  God. 


4.   PREPARATION  FOR  DEATH,  AND  WTIEN  THE  END  IS 
AT  HAND. 

Lessons. 
Ps.  90;  Job  14,  1—5;  2  Cor.  5,  1—10;   Phil.  1,  21—30. 

Sentences. 

There  remainetn  a  rest  for  the  people  of  God.  Let  us  labor, 
therefore,  to  enter  into  that  rest.   Heb.  4,  9.  11. 

Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you:  He  tbat  hcareth  My  Word;  and 
believeth  on  Him  that  sent  Me,  hath  everlasting  life,  and  shall  nol 
come  into  condemnation,  but  is  passed  from  death  unto  life. 
John  5,  24. 

I  am  now  ready  to  be  offered,  and  the  time  of  my  departure 


\M»   PRAYERS    Fo|{   TIIK   SICK    AND  TIIK   DYING. 


93 


is  at  hand.  I  have  fought  a  good  fight,  I  have  finished  my  course, 
I  have  kept  the  faith.  Henceforth  there  is  laid  up  for  me  a  crown 
of  righteousness,  which  the  Lord,  the  righteous  Judge,  shall  give 
me  at  that  day.  2  Tim.  4,  G— 8. 

Though  1  walk  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  <>f  death,  I  will 
fear  no  evil:  for  Thou  art  with  me;  Thy  rod  and  Thy  stalf,  they 
comfort  me.    Ps.  23,  I. 

Lord,  now  lettest  Thou  Thy  servant  depart  in  peace,  according 
t"  Thy  Word  ;  for  mine  eyes  have  seen  Thy  salvation.  Luke  2, 29.  30. 

Verily,  I  say  unto  thee,  To-day  shalt  thou  be  with  Me  in 
paradise.  Luke  83,  13. 

Lord  Jesus,  receive  my  spirit.    Arts  ?,  59. 

Prayers. 

0  Thou  true  Savior,  Jesus  Christ !  Thou  who  art  the  Lamb 
of  God  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  and  hast  washed  and 
cleansed  me  in  Thy  blood:  I  beseech  Thee  by  Thy  bitter  passion, 
and  especially  by  what  Thou  didst  suffer  when  Thy  soul  passed  but 
of  the  body,  have  mercy  upon  my  soul  in  the  hour  of  its  departure, 
and  bring  me  to  life  everlasting,  where  Thou  livest  and  reignest 
forever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Almighty  and  eternal  God,  dear,  faithful  heavenly  Father, 
comfort  me  —  strengthen  me  —  spare  me  through  Thy  great  mercy. 
Help  me  out  of  all  agony  and  distress.  Release  me  in  Thy  grace. 
Take  me  to  Thee,  into  Thy  kingdom.  Into  Thy  hands  I  commit 
my  soul.  Thou  hast  redeemed  me,  0  Thou  faithful  God,  through 
the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  my  only  Lord  and  Savior.    Amen. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us.    Amen. 


Verses. 


Jerusalem,  thou  city  fair  and  high, 

Would   God    I    were   in   theei 

My  longing  heart  fain,  fain  to  thee 

would    fly, 
It   will    not   stay   with   me; 
Far  over  vale  and  mountain, 
Far  over  field  and  plain, 
It  hastes  to  seek   its   Fountain, 
And   quit    this   world   of   pain. 

.Tesus,   Lover   of  my   soul, 
Let  me  to  Thy   bosom   fly, 
While   the   nearer   waters    roll, 
While   the  tempest  still   is  high. 


Bide  rae,  0  my  Savior,  hide, 

Till    the  storm   of   life    is   past; 
Safe   into   the   haven   guid< •: 
oh,   receive  niv  soul  at  last! 


other    refuge   have    I    none; 
Hangs    my    helpless   soul   on    The 
Leave,   ah!     leave  me   not    alone, 
Still    support  and   comfort    me. 
All   my   trust  on   The»    is   stayed, 
All  my  help  from  Thee  I   bring, 
Cover   my    defenseless    head 
With   the  shadow  of  Thy  wing. 


94 


LESSONS  AND  PRAYERS  FOR  THE  SICK  AND  THE  DYINO. 


Abide  with  me!  fast  falls  the  even- 
tide; 

The  darkness  deepens;  Lord,  with 
me  abide! 

When  other  helpers  fail,  and  com- 
forts flee, 

Help  of  the  helpless,  oh,  abide  with 
me! 


When  soul  and  body  languish, 
Oh,  leave  me  not  alone, 
But   take  away  mine   anguish 
By  virtue  of  Thine  own! 

Be  Thou  my  Consolation 
And  Shield  when  I  must  die; 
Remind  me  of  Thy  passion 
When  my  last  hour  draws  nigh. 
When  hence  I  must  betake  me,  My  eyes  shall  then  behold  Thee, 

Lord,  do  not  Thou   depart!  Upon  Thy  cross  shall  dwell, 

Oh,  nevermore  forsake  me  My  heart  by  faith  enfold  Thee. 

When  death  is  at  my  heart!  Who  dieth  thus  dies  well. 

When  the  soul  is  about  to"  depart,  the  minister  may  lay  his 
hand  on  the  head  of  the  dying  believer  and  say : 

Depart  in  peace,  thou  ransomed  soul,  in  the  name  of  God  the 
Father  Almighty,  who  created  thee;  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ, 
the  Son  of  the  living  God,  who  redeemed  thee;  in  the  name  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  who  sanctified  thee.    Amen. 


5.   GRATITUDE  FOR  RECOVERY. 
Lessons. 
Ps.  103,  1—14;  Is.  38,  9—20;  John  5,  1-^14;   Acts  3,  1— y. 

Sentences. 

Offer  unto  God  thanksgiving,  and  pay  thy  vows  unto  the  Most 
High.    Ps.  50, 14. 

The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  them  that  call  upon  Him,  to  all  that 
call  upon  Him  in  truth.  He  will  fulfil  the  desire  of  them  that 
fear  Him;  He  also  will  hear  their  cry,  and  will  save  them. 
Ps.  145,  18.  19. 

The  Lord  is  good,  a  stronghold  in  the  day  of  trouble;  and  He 
knoweth  them  that  trust  in  Him.  Nah.  1,  7. 

He  giveth  power  to  the  faint,  and  to  them  that  have  no  might 
He  increaseth  strength.  They  that  wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew 
their  strength.    Is.  40,  29.  31. 

Prayers. 
Great   and    mighty    God,   who   bringest   down    to    the   grave 
and    bringest   up   again,   we   bless   Thy   wonderful   goodness   for 
having   turned   our   heaviness   into  joy   and   our   mourning   into 


SONS  ami  PRAYERS   FOR  THE  SICK   ASH  T1IF.  DYING.  1)5 

gladness,  by  restoring  this  <>ur  brother  to  some  degree  of  his 
former  health.  Blessed  be  Thy  name  that  Thou  didst  not  for- 
sake him  in  his  sickness,  but  didst  visit  him  with  comforts  from 

didsi  support  him  in  patience  and  submission  to  Thy 
will;    and  at  last  didst  send  him  seasonable  relief.     Perfect,  we 

Thee,  this  Thy  mercy  toward  him,  and  prosper  the 
means  which  shall  be  made  use  of  for  his  cure,  that,  being  re- 
stored to  health  of  body,  vigor  of  mind,  and  cheerfulness  of  spirit, 
he  may  be  able  to  go  to  Thine  house  to  offer  Thee  an  oblation  with 
great  gladness,  and  to  bless  Thy  holy  name  for  all  Thy  goodness 
towards  him;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Savior,  to  whom,  with  Thee 
and  the  Holy  Spirit,  be  all  honor  and  glory,  world  without  end. 
A  men. 

I  thank  Thee,  Lord,  almighty  God,  that  Thou  hast  visited  me 
as  a  father  and  chastened  me.  Yea,  Lord,  I  am  glad  that  Thou 
hast  humbled  me,  that  I  might  learn  Thy  ways.  Help  now,  0  Lord, 
my  God,  that  with  renewed  health  I  may  also  begin  a  new  life. 
Grant  that  I  may  always  glorify  Thy  name,  and  that  Thy  praise 
may  be  continually  found  in  my  mouth.     Amen. 


0  bless  the  Lord,  my  soul! 
Nor    let    His   mercies    lie 
Forgotten    in   unthankfulness, 

Anil   without   praises  die. 

"lis  Be  forgives  thy.sins; 

"I  is  Be  relieves  thy  pain; 

Tis  Be  that  heals  Thy  sicknesses 

And  gives  thee  strength  again. 


VERSEa 

God  hitherto  hath  befn  my  Guide, 
Hath  pleasures  hitherto  supplied, 
And   hitherto  hath  helped  me. 


The  Lord  hath  helped  me  hitherto 
By    His   surpassing   favor; 
His  mercies   every   morn   were   new, 
His  kindness  did  not  waver. 


Help  me  in  future,  God  of  grace, 
Help  me  on  each  occasion; 
Help  me  in  each  and  ev'ry  place; 
Help  me  through  Jesus'  passion; 
Help  ffe  in  life  and  death,  0  God; 
Help  me  through    Jesus'   dying 

blood; 
Help  me  as  Thou  hast  helped  me! 


6.  AT  THE  SICKBED  OF  CHILDREN. 
Lessons. 
Ps.  23;    25,   1—7;    121;    Matt.   9,   18.   23—26;    Mark  10, 
13—15;    Titus  3,  4—7;    Rev.  3,   11.   12.  — Meaning  of  Second 

Article.    (Catechism.) 

Sentences. 

Remember  now  thy  Creator  in  the  days  of  thy  youth,  while  the 
evil  days  come  not,  nor  the  years  draw  nigh  when  thou  shalt  say, 
I  have  no  pleasure  in  them*   Eccl.  12, 1. 


96  LESSONS  AND  PRAYERS   FOR  THE  SICK   AND  THE  DYING. 

Fear  not ;  for  I  have  redeemed  thee,  I  have  called  thee  by  thy 
name;   thon  art  Mine.    Is.  43, 1. 

In  heaven  their  angels  do  always  behold  the  face  of  My 
Father  which  is  in  heaven.   Matt.  18, 10. 

Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord  pitieth  them 
that  fear  Him.   Ps.  103, 13. 

Ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with  corruptible  things, 
as  silver  and  gold,  but  with  the  precious  blood  of  Christ,  as  of 
a  Lamb  without  blemish  and  without  spot.   1  Pet.  1, 18. 19. 

He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized  shall  be  saved.   Mark  1G,  16. 

For  none  of  us  liveth  to  himself,  and  no  man  dieth  to  himself. 
For  whether  we  live,  we  live  unto  the  Lord;  and  whether  we  die, 
we  die  unto  the  Lord :  whether  we  live,  therefore,  or  die,  we  are 
the  Lord's.  Rom.  14,  7.  8. 

Prayers. 

Tender  Jesus,  meek  and  mild, 
Look    on   me,   Thy    loving   child; 
Help  me,  if  it  is  Thy  will, 
To  recover  from  all  ill.    Amen. 

Almighty  and  gracious  God,  whose  mercies  are  over  all  Thy 
creatures,  look  in  tender  compassion,  we  beseech  Thee,  upon  Thy 
servant  N.  N*  who  is  sick.  Sustain* him  m  the  trial  through  which 
he  is  now  passing,  and  sanctify  it  to  his  good.  Deliver  him  from 
suffering,  and,  if  in  accordance  with  Thy  holy  will,  restore  him 
to  health  and  strength,  that  he  may  joyfully  swerve  Thee  in  Thy 
Church,  to  the  honor  of  Thy  name;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy 
Son',  our  Lord.    Amen. 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,*vho  earnest  into  this  world  as  a  little 
child,  in  want  and  suffering,  look  mercifully,  we  beseech  Thee,  upon 
the  sick  child  for  whom  our  prayers  are  desired ;  in  Thy  great  love 
grant  htm  relief  from  all  his  suffering,  or  else  take  him  unto  Thy- 
self, where  pain  shall  be  no  more.  Hear  us  for  Thy  mercy's  sake. 
Amen. 

For  a  Child's  Recovery  from  Sickness. 

Almighty  God  and  heavenly  Father,  we  give  Thee  humble 
thanks  because  Thou  hast  been  graciously  pleased  to  deliver  from 
his  bodily  sickness  the  child  in  whose  behalf  we  bless  and  praise 
Thy  name.  Grant,  we  beseech  thee,  0  gracious  Father,  that  he, 
through  Thy  help,  may  both  faithfully  live  in  this  world  according 
to  Thy  will,  and  also  may  be  partaker  of  everlasting  glory  in  the 
life  to  come,    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 


ME    <  "MMIM 


Verses. 


Jesus,  II. y  blood  and  righteousness 
My  jewels  arc,  my  glorious  dress; 
In  tli.-.'  before  my  Hod  Til  stand 
\\  Inn  I  shall  enter  heaven's  brighl 
land. 


Make  us  brave,  without   a   fear, 

Make  us  happy,  full  of  cl r, 

Sun-  that    Thou  art   always   near; 
Hear  us,  holy  Jesus! 


Jesus,  from  Thy  throne  on  high, 
Far  above  the  bright   blue  sky, 
Look  on  U9  with  loving  eye ; 
Hear   us,   holy  Jesus! 


Shall   I   not    rejoice  for  this? 
I    He  is  mini',  and    I   am    His: 
And  when  these  bright  days  an-  past, 
Safely   in   His  arms  at    last 
He   will   bear   me   home  to   heaven; 
Ah,  what   joys  hath  Jesus  given! 


VIII.   (EIjp  (Eammummt  of  tlje  £>irk. 

The  Minister  may  sail: 

In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

Then  may  the  Minister  say  the  following  or  some  other  Prayer: 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  didst  give  Thine  only 
Son  into  death  for 'our  sins,  and  through  Him  didst  institute 
the  holy  Sacrament  of  His  body  and  blood  for  the  strengthening 
of  our  faith:  we  call  upon  Thee  in  behalf  of  this  our  sick 
brother,  who  desires  to  receive  Holy  Communion  for  a  comfort 
in  his  affliction.  Enlighten  him  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  //<■ 
may  rightly  know  and  willingly  confess  his  sins.  Enable  him 
also  with  true  faith  to  embrace  our  only  Mediator  and  Redeemer, 
Jesus  Christ,  that  he  may  obtain  both  pardon  and  peace,  and 
be  prepared  to  partake  worthily  of  Thy  Holy  Supper  to  his 
soul's  health.  Strengthen  him  through  this  salutary  gift  in 
faith  towards  Thee  and  in  fervent  love  toward  all  men.  Create 
in  him  a  clean  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  him. 
Cause  him  also  to  recognize  in  this  present  visitation  Thy  fatherly 
hand,  that  he  may  bear  his  cross  in  cheerful  submission  to  Thy 
holy  will;  and  do  Thou  deal  with  him  according  to  Thine  in- 
finite mercy  as  Thou  alone  best  knowest,  for  the  sake  of  Thy 
dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Then    may    the    Minister    read   a    Psalm    (e.    n.,    the   6th,   25th.  32d.   S8th,   Qld,   51st, 
list.  77th,  i).un.  (i<iili))</  thereto  a  suitable  Exhortation. 

The   regular  form   for  Confession  anil  Absolution    may   be   used,   as   follows: 

O  almighty  God,  merciful  Father,  I,  a  poor,  miserable  sin- 
ner, confess  unto  Thee  all  my  sins  and  iniquities  with  which 
I   have   ever   offended   Thee,  and   justly   deserved   Thy   temporal 

LITIRGY    AND    AGENDA.  V 


98  THE   COMMUNION   OF   THE   SICK 

and  eternal  punishment.  But  I  am  heartily  sorry  for  them,  and 
sincerely  repent  of  them,  and  I  pray  Thee,  of  Thy  boundless 
mercy  and  for  the  sake  of  the  holy,  innocent,  bitter  sufferings 
and  death  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  to  be  gracious  and 
merciful  to  me,  a  poor,  sinful  being.     Amen. 

Is  this  thy  sincere  confession,  then  declare  so  by  saying,  Yes. 

Answer:    Yes. 

Upon  this  thy  confession,  I,  by  virtue  of  my  office,  as 
a  called  and  ordained  servant  of  the  Word,  announce  unto  thee 
the  grace  of  God,  and  in  the  stead  and  by  the  command  of  my 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I  forgive  thee  all  thy  sins,  in  the  name  of 
God  f  the  Father,  God  f  the  Son,  and  God  f  the  Holy  Ghost. 
Amen. 

Or  the  Mmister  may  say: 

Dost  thou  humbly  acknowledge  and  heartily  lament  thy  sins? 

Answer:   Yes. 

Dost  thou  believe  that  God,  thy  merciful  Father,  for  the 
sake   of   Jesus    Christ,   thy   Savior,   pardons   all   thine   offenses? 

Answer:   Yes. 

Art  thou  resolved,  if  God  prolong  thy  life,  to  lead  the  re- 
mainder of  thy  life  in  His   fear  and  to  His  glory? 

Answer:    Yes. 

Be  it  unto  thee  according  to  thy  faith.  And  I,  by  the  com- 
mand of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  upon  this  thy  confession,  for- 
give thee  all  thy  sins,  in  the  name  of  the  Father  f,  and  of  the 
Son  f ,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost  f.    Amen. 

Peace  be  with  thee.    Amen. 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth. 

And  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our  Lord;  Who  was 
conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost;  Born  of  the  Virgin  Mary;  Suf- 
fered under  Pontius  Pilate;  Was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried; 
He  descended  into  hell;  The  third  day  He  rose  again  from  the 
dead;  He  ascended  into  heaven;  And  sitteth  on  the  right  hand 
of  God  the  Father  Almighty ;  From  thence  He  shall  come  to 
judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 

I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost;  The  holy  Christian  Church, 
the  communion  of  saints;  The  forgiveness  of  sins;  The  resur- 
rection of  the  body;    And  the  life  everlasting.    Amen. 

Let  us  pray. 


THE  COMMUNION   OF   THE   SICK.  9«J 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  same  night  in  which  He  was 
betrayed,  took  bread;  and  when  He  had  given  thanks,  He  brake 
it,  and  gave  it  to  His  disciples,  and  said:  Take,  eat;  this  is  My 
body,  which  is  given  for  you.    This  do  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

After  the  same  manner  also  He  took  the  cup  when  He  had 
supped,  gave  thanks,  and  gave  it  to  them,  saying,  Take,  drink  ye 
all  of  it;  this  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  My  blood,  which  is 
shed  for  you  for  the  remission  of  sins.  This  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye 
drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

Take  and  eat;  this  is  the  true  body  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
given  into  death  for  thy  sins.  This  strengthen  and  preserve  thee 
in  the  true  faith  unto  life  eternal.    Amen. 

Take  and  drink;    this  is  the  true  blood  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  shed  for  the  remission  of  thy  sins.    This  strengthen  and 
preserve  thee  in  the  true  faith  unto  life  eternal.    Amen. 
A  Psalm  (e.  g.,  the  23d,  103d,  tilth,  mth)  may  be  read,  followed  by  the 
Thanksgiving. 

Psalm  23. 

The  Lord  is  my  Shepherd:  I  shall  not  want.  He  maketh 
me  to  lie  down  in  green  pastures;  He  leadeth  me  beside  the  still 
waters. 

He  restoreth  my  soul;  He  leadeth  me  in  the  paths  of 
righteousness  for  His  name's  sake. 

Yea,  though  I  walk  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of 
death,  I  will  fear  no  evil;  for  Thou  art  with  me;  Thy  rod  and 
Thy  staff,  they  comfort  me. 

Thou  preparest  a  table  before  me  fn  the  presence  of  mine 
enemies ;  Thou  anointest  my  head  with  oil ;   my  cup  runneth  over. 

Surely,  goodness  and  mercy  shall  follow  me  all  the  days  of 
my  life;   and  I  will  dwell  in  the  house  of  the  Lord  forever. 

1. 

0  Lord  Jesus,  my  Savior  and  only  Refuge,  I  give  Tin  e 
hearty  thanks  that  Thou  hast  so  graciously  refreshed  me  with 
Thy  sacred  body  and  blood.     Uphold  me  with  Thy  grace  that 


100  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD. 

I  may  not  lose  heart.  Into  Thy  hands  I  commit  my  body  and 
soul,  whether  for  life  or  for  death.  Grant  that,  when  my  last  hour 
shall  come,  I  may  fall  asleep  in  firm  faith  in  Thee  and  Thy 
sacred  blood,  0  Thou,  who  livest  and  reignest,  world  without 
end.    Amen. 

2. 

We  thank  Thee,  almighty  God,  that  Thou  hast  refreshed 
this  Thy  servant  with  this  salutary  gift;  and  we  beseech  Thee, 
of  Thy  mercy,  to  strengthen  him  through  the  same  in  faith 
toward  Thee,  in  love  toward  all  mankind,  in  patience  under 
trials,  and  in  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord,  who  liveth  and  reigneth,  with  Thee 
and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever,  one  God,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

3. 

Almighty  God,  Heavenly  Father,  I  heartily  thank  Thee  that 
Thou  hast  refreshed  me  with  the  body  and  blood  of  Thy  dear 
Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  beseech  Thee,  cause  this  heavenly  food  so 
to  strengthen  my  faith  that  I  may  bear  my  cross  with  Christian 
patience  and  trust,  until  it  shall  please  Thee  to  grant  me  de- 
liverance ;    through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and   keep  thee. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious 
unto  thee. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,  and  give 
thee  peace,    f     Amen. 


IX.  ®I?p  lurral  nf  tfje  itaH. 


A.    AT  THE  HOUSE. 

A   brief  service  is  in  most  cases  held  at  the  house  before  going  to  the  church 

or  to  the  grave.     A   Hymn  may  be  sung,  followed  by  a  Lesson  and  a  Collect 

or  Prayer. 

The  Minister  may  use  one  or  more  of  the  following  versicles: 

Grace  to  you  and  peace  from  God  our  Father  and  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

Unto  our  God,  who  alone  hath  immortality,  be  honor  and 
power  both  now  and  forever.    Amen. 

Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made  heaven 
and  earth.    Amen. 


THE    BURIAL   OK   THE    DEAD. 


mi 


Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord  pitietb 
them  that  fear  Him.  For  He  knoweth  our  frame;  He  remem- 
bereth  that  we  are  dust.    Amen. 

Blessed  be  the  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
the  Father  of  mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort,  who  comforteth 
us  in  all  our  affliction,  that  we  may  be  able  to  comfort  them 
that  are  in  any  affliction,  through  '  the  comfort  wherewith  we 
ourselves  are  comforted   of   God.     (2   Cor.  1,  3.  4.)     Amen. 

Forasmuch  as  it  hath  pleased  Almighty  God  to  summon  out 
of  this  life  the  soul  of  this  broihcr  and  member  of  Christ,  it 
becometh  us,  as  Christians  to  remember,  in  our  bereavement  and 
sorrow,  the  admonition  and  consolation  of  God's  own  Book  of 
comfort. 

Hear  therefore  the  Word  of  God  as  it  is  written: 

Then   shall   a   Scriptiuelcsson    be   read,   e.  g.: 

At  the  death  of  a  child:  2  Sam.  12,  15—23;  1  Kings  17, 
17—24;   2  Kings  4,  IS— 26;  Jcr.  31,  15—17;   Mark  10,  13—16. 

At  the  death  of  a  young  person:  Eccl.  11,  7 — 10;  12,  1 — 8; 
Is.  40,  30.  31;    Mark  5.  35—43;    Luke  7,  11—17. 

At  the  death  of  a  woman:  Acts  9,  36—42;  Luke  2,  36—38. 

At  the  death  of  the  aged:  Job  5,  17—26;  Ps.  71,  7—21; 
Luke  2,  25—32;    2  Tim.  4,  6—8. 

Mortality:  Job  14,  1—15;  Ps.  39,  4—13;  Is.  40,  6—10; 
Jas.  4,  13—15;  Rom.  8,  31—39;  Num.  21,  6—9,  with  John 
3,  14.  15. 

Bereavement:  Ps.  88,  1—18;  130,  1—8;  143,  1—12;  Eccl. 
7,  1—4 ;   Is.  54,  7—13. 

Comfort:  Ps.  25,  1—22;  46;  61,  1 — 1;  103,  1—22;  Lam. 
3,  22.  23;    John  10.  7—16;    14,  1—6. 

Hope:   Job  19,  25—27;   Ps.  23;   42,  5—11;    1  Pet.  1,  3—9. 

Exhortations:  Matt.  24,  36—47;  25,  1—13;  Mark  13, 
32—37;  Luke  12,  35—48;  1  Cor.  7,  29—31;  Eph.  5,  15—21; 
6,  10—18;    1  Thess.  5,  1—11:    2  Pet.  3,  8—24. 

Victory:  Ps.  31.  7—24:  Rom.  8/  16— 25.  31—39;  1  Cor. 
i;,.  :,0— 58;    Rev.  22,  12—14. 

Resurrection:  Matt.  28,  1—10;  Mark  12,  26.  27;  John  5, 
19—29;  11,  1—44;  1  Cor.  15,  20—28.  35—49;  2  Cor.  1.  7—18; 
Phil.  3,  8—11 ;   Col.  3,  1—4 ;    1  Thess.  4,  13—18. 

Heaven:  Matt.  25,  34—40;  2  Cor.  5,  1—10;  Rev.  7,  9—17; 
14.  13:    19.  5—9;    21,  1—5.  10—13.  22—27;    22,  1—6. 


102  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD. 

Psalm  90,  1—12. 

Lord,  Thou  hast  been  our  dwelling-place  in  all  generations. 

Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever  Thou 
hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world,  even  from  everlasting  to 
everlasting,  Thou  art  God. 

Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction,  and  sayest,  Return,  ye 
children  of  men. 

For  a  thousand  years  in  Thy  sight  are  but  as  yesterday 
when  it  is  past,  and  as  a  watch  in  the  night. 

Thou  carriest  them  away  as  with  a  flood;  they  are  like 
grass  that  groweth  up. 

In  the  morning  it  flourisheth  and  groweth  up;  in  the  even- 
ing it  is  cut  down  and  withereth. 

For  we  are  consumed  by  Thine  anger,  and  by  Thy  wrath 
are  we  troubled. 

Thou  hast  set  our  iniquities  before  Thee ;  our  secret  sins 
in  the  light  of  Thy  countenance. 

For  all  our  days  are  passed  away  in  Thy  wrath ;  we  spend 
our  years  as  a  tale  that  is  told. 

The  days  of  our  years  are  threescore  years  and  ten;  and 
if  by  reason  of  strength  they  are  fourscore  years,  yet  is  their 
strength  labor  and  sorrow,  for  it  is  soon  cut  off,  and  we  fly  away. 

Who  knoweth  the  power  of  Thine  anger?  Even  according 
to  Thy  fear,  so  is  Thy  wrath. 

So  teach  us  to  number  our  days  that  we  may  apply  our 
hearts  unto  wisdom. 

John  5,  2k. 

Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  He  that  heareth  My  Word, 
and  believeth  on  Him  that  sent  Me,  hath  everlasting  life,  and 
shall  not  come  into  condemnation,  but  is  passed  from  death 
unto  life. 

John   10,   27—29. 

My  sheep  hear  My  voice,  and  I  know  them,  and  they  fol- 
low Me: 

And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life;  and  they  shall  never 
perish,  neither  shall  any  man  pluck  them  out  of  My  hand. 

My  Father,  which  gave  them  Me,  is  greater  than  all;  and 
no  man  is  able  to  pluck  them  out  of  My  Father's  hand. 


THE   Bl/RIAL   OF   THE   DEAD.  lll.J 

Psalm  130. 

Out  of  the  depths  have  I  cried  unto  Thee,  0  Lord. 

Lord,  hear  my  voice;  let  Thine  ears  be  attentive  to  the 
voice  of  my  supplications. 

If  Thou,  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities,  0  Lord,  who 
shall  stand? 

But  there  is  forgiveness  with  Thee,  that  Thou  mayest  be 
feared. 

I  wait  for  the  Lord,  my  soul  doth  wait,  and  in  His  Word 
do  I  hope. 

My  soul  waiteth  for  the  Lord  more  than  they  that  watch 
for  the  morning;  I  say,  more  than  they  that  watch  for  the 
morning. 

Let  Israel  hope  in  the  Lord;  for  with  the  Lord  there  is 
mercy,  and  with  Him  is  plenteous  redemption. 

And  He  shall  redeem  Israel  from  all  his  iniquities. 

Psalm  28. 

The  Lord  is  my  Shepherd;    I  shall  not  want. 

He  maketh  me  to  lie  down  in  green  pastures;  He  leadeth 
me  beside  the  still  waters. 

He  restoreth  my  soul;  He  leadeth  me  in  the  paths  of  right- 
eousness for  His  name's  sake. 

Yea,  though  I  walk  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of 
death,  I  will  fear  no  evil;  for  Thou  art  with  me;  Thy  rod 
,  and  Thy  staff,  they  comfort  me. 

Thou  preparest  a  table  before  me  in  the  presence  of  mine 
enemies ;  Thou  anointest  my  head  with  oil ;  my  cup  runneth  over. 

Surely,  goodness  and  mercy  shall  follow  me  all  the  days  of 
my  life;   and  I  will  dwell  in  the  house  of  the  Lord  forever. 

1  Tkess.  4,  18—18. 
But  I  would  not  have  you  to  be  ignorant,  brethren,  con- 
cerning them  which  are  asleep,  that  ye  sorrow  not,  even  as  others 
which  have  no  hope.  For  if  we  believe  that  Jesus  died  and  rose 
again,  even  so  them  also  which  sleep  in  Jesus  will  God  bring 
with  Him.  For  this  we  say  unto  you  by  the  word  of  the  Lord, 
that  we  which  are  alive  and  remain  unto  the  coming  of  the 
Lord  shall  not  prevent  them  which  are  asleep.  For  the  Lord 
Himself  shall  descend  from  heaven  with  a  shout,  with  the  voice 


104  THE  BURIAL   OF   THE  DEAD. 

of  the  archangel  and  with  the  trump  of  God ;  and  the  dead  in 
Christ  shall  rise  lirst.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain 
shall  be  caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds  to  meet  the 
Lord  in  the  air;  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord.  Where- 
fore comfort  one  another  with  these  words. 

John  Ik,  1—6 
Let  not  your  heart  be  troubled.  Ye  believe  in  God,  believe 
also  in  Me.  In  My  Father's  house  there  are  many  mansions; 
if  it  were  not  so,  I  would  have  told  you.  I  go  to  prepare 
a  place  for  you.  And  if  I  go  and  prepare  a  place  for  you,  I  will 
come  again,  and  receive  you  unto  Myself,  that,  where  I  am, 
there  ye  may  be  also.  And  whither  I  go  ye  know,  and  the  way 
ye  know.  Thomas  saith  unto  Him,  Lord,  we  know  not  whither 
Thou  goest;  and  how  can  we  know  the  way?  Jesus  saith  unto 
him,  I  am  the  Way,  and  the  Truth,  and  the  Life:  no  man 
cometh  unto  the   Father  but  by  Me. 

At  the  Death  of  a  Child. 
Job  U,  1.  2. 
Man  that  is  born  of  a  woman  is  of  few  days  and  full  of 
trouble.     He  cometh  forth  like  a  flower,  and  is  cut  down;    he 
fleeth  also  as  a  shadow,  and  continueth  not. 

Job  5,  6.  7. 
Although   affliction   cometh   not   forth   of   the   dust,   neither 
doth  trouble  spring  out  of  the  ground,  yet  man  is  born  unto 
trouble,  as  the  sparks  fly  upward. 

Job  1,  21. 
The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away;   blessed  be 
the  name  of  the  Lord. 

Is.  hO,  11. 
He  shall  feed  His  flock  like  a  shepherd;    He  shall  gather 
the  lambs  in  His  arms,  and  carry  them  in  His  bosom,  and  shall 
gently  lead  those  that  give  suck. 

Jer.  81,  15—17. 
Thus  saith  the  Lord:    A  voice  is  heard  of  Ramah,  lamen- 
tation and  bitter  weeping,  Rachel  weeping  for  her  children;    she 
refuseth  to  be  comforted  for  her  children,  because  they  are  not. 


THE   BDRIAL    OF    THE    DEAD.  ](>•") 

Thus  saith  the  Lord:  Refrain  thy  voice  from  weeping  and  thine 
eyes  from  tears;  for  thy  work  shall  be  rewarded,  saith  the 
Lord;  and  they  shall  come  again  from  the  land  of  the  enemy. 
And  there  is  hope  for  thy  latter  end,  saith  the  Lord;  and  thy 
children  shall  come  again  to  their  own  border. 

Mark  10,  IS— 16. 
And  they  brought  young  children  to  Him  that  He  should 
touch  them;  and  His  disciples  rebuked  those  that  brought  them. 
But  when  Jesus  saw  it,  He  was  much  displeased  and  said  unto 
them,  Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid 
them  not;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Verily,  I  say 
unto  you,  Whosoever  shall  not  receive  the  kingdom  of  God  as 
a  little  child,  he  shall  not  enter  therein.  And  He  took  them  up 
in  His  arms,  put  His  hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them. 

At  the  Death  of  a  Young  Person. 
Psalm  108,  15.  16. 
As   for  man,   his   days   are  as   grass;    as   a   flower   of   the 
field,  so  he  flourisheth.     For  the  wind  passeth  over  it,  and  it  is 
gone;    and  the  place  thereof  shall  know  it  no  more. 

Psalm  89,  5. 
Behold,  Thou  hast  made  my  days  as  an  handbreadth;    and 
mine  age  is  as  nothing  before  Thee.     Verily,  every  man  at  his 
best  estate  is  altogether  vanity. 

Job  9,  25.  26. 
Now  my  days  are  swifter  than  a  post;    they  flee  away,  they 
see  no  good.     They  are  passed  away  as  the  swift  ships,  as  the 
eagle  that  hasteth  to  the  prey. 

Prov.  21,  1. 
Boast  not  thyself  of  to-morrow;    for  thou  knowest  not  what 
a  day  may  bring  forth. 

Eccl.  11,  7—10. 
Truly,  the  light  is  sweet,  and  a  pleasant  thing  it  is  for  the 
eyes  to  behold  the  sun;  but  if  a  man  live  many  years,  and  re- 
joice in  them  all,  yet  let  him  remember  the  days  of  darkness; 
for  they  shall  be  many.  All  that  cometh  is  vanity.  Rejoice, 
0  young  man,  in  thy  youth,  and  let  thy  heart  cheer  thee  in  the 


106  THE  BURIAL   OF  THE  DEAD. 

days  of  thy  youth,  and  walk  in  the  ways  of  thine  heart  and  in 
the  sight  of  thine  eyes;  but  know  thou  that  for  all  these  things 
God  will  bring  thee  into  judgment.  Therefore  remove  sorrow 
from  thy  heart,  and  put  aAvay  evil  from  thy  flesh;  for  childhood 
and  youth  are  vanity. 

James  ]+,  Ik. 

For  what  is  your  life?  It  is  even  a  vapor  that  appeareth 
for  a  little  time,  and  then  vanisheth  away. 

Luke  7,  11—16. 
And  it  came  to  pass  the  day  after  that  He  went  into  a  city 
called  Nain ;  and  many  of  His  disciples  went  with  Him  and  much 
people.  Now,  when  He  came  nigh  to  the  gate  of  the  city,  behold, 
there  was  a  dead  man  carried  out,  the  only  son  of  his  mother,  and 
she  was  a  widow;  and  much  people  of  the  city  was  with  her. 
And  when  the  Lord  saw  her,  He  had  compassion  on  her  and  said 
unto  her,  Weep  not.  And  he  came  and  touched  the  bier;  and 
they  that  bare  him  stood  still.  And  he  said,  Young  man,  I  say 
unto  thee,  Arise.  And  he  that  was  dead  sat  up  and  began  to 
speak.  And  He  delivered  him  to  his  mother.  And  there  came 
a  fear  on  all;  and  they  glorified  God,  saying,.  That  a  great 
prophet  is  risen  up  among  us;  and,  That  God  hath  visited  His 
people.  And  this  rumor  of  Him  went  forth  throughout  all  Judea 
and  throughout  all  the  region  round  about. 

Matt  9,  18.  19.  28—26. 

While  He  spake  these  things  unto  them,  behold,  there  came 
a  certain  ruler  and  worshiped  Him,  saying,  My  daughter  is  even 
now  dead;  but  come  and  lay  Thy  hand  upon  her,  and  she 
shall  live.  And  Jesus  arose  and  followed  him,  and  so  did  His 
disciples. 

And  when  Jesus  came  into  the  ruler's  house,  and  saw  the 
minstrels  and  the  people  making  a  noise,  He  said  unto  them, 
Give  place;  for  the  maid  is  not  dead,  but  sleepeth.  And  they 
laughed  Him  to  scorn.  But  when  the  people  were  put  forth, 
He  went  in  and  took  her  by  the  hand,  and  the  maid  arose.  And 
the  fame  hereof  went  abroad  into  all  that  land. 

Matt  25,  1—18. 
Then  shall  the  kingdom  of  heaven  be  likened  unto  ten  vir- 
gins which  took  their  lamps,  and  went  forth  to  meet  the  bride- 
groom.   And  five  of  them  were  wise,  and  five  were  foolish.    They 


THE   BURIAL  OP    i  HE   DEAD.  JO"/ 

that  were  foolish  took  their  lamps,  and  took  no  oil  with  them  ; 
but  the  wise  took  oil  in  their  vessels  with  their  lamps.  While 
the  bridegroom  tarried,  they  all  slumbered  and  slept.  And  at 
midnight  there  was  a  cry  made,  Behold,  the  bridegroom  cometh; 
go  ye  out  to  meet  him!  Then  all  those  virgins  arose,  and 
trimmed  their  lamps.  And  the  foolish  said  unto  the  wise,  Givi 
us  of  your  oil;  for  our  lamps  arc  gone  out.  But  the  wise 
answered,  saying,  Not  so,  lest  there  be  not  enough  for  us  and 
you;  but  go  ye  rather  to  them  that  sell,  and  buy  for  yourselves. 
And  while  they  went  to  buy,  the  bridegroom  carnc;  and  they 
that  were  ready  went  in  with  him  to  the  marriage.  And  the 
door  was  shut.  Afterward  came  also  the  other  virgins,  saying, 
Lord,  lord,  open  to  us !  But  he  answered  and  said,  Verily,  I  say 
unto  you,  I  know  you  not.  Watch  therefore;  for  ye  know  neither 
the  day  nor  the  hour  wherein  the  Son  of  Man  cometh. 

At  the  Death  of  thi:  Aged. 
Psalm  92,  12—1',. 
The  righteous  shall  flourish  like  the  palm-tree;  he  shall 
grow  like  a  cedar  in  Lebanon.  Those  that  be  planted  in  the 
house  of  the  Loud  shall  flourish  in  the  courts  of  our  God.  They 
shall  still  bring  forth  fruit  in  old  age;  they  shall  be  fat  and 
flourishing;  to  show  that  the  Lord  is  upright.  He  is  my  Bock, 
and  there  is  no  unrighteousness  in  Him. 

Prov.  10,  31. 

The  hoary  head  is  a  crown  of  glory  if  it  be  found  in  the 
way  of  righteousness. 

Is.  J,6,  J,. 

And  even  to  old  age  I  am  He,  and  even  to  hoar  hairs  will 
I  carry  you.  I  have  made,  and  I  will  bear;  yea,  I  will  carry 
and   will   deliver. 

.    Tim.  -'/.  6—S. 

For  I  am  now  ready  to  be  offered,  and  the  time  of  my 
departure  is  at  hand.  I  have  fought  a  good  fight,  I  have  finished 
my  course,  I  have  kept  the  faith;  henceforth  there  is  laid  up 
for  me  a  crown  of  righteousness,  which  the  Lord,  the  righteous 
Judge,  shall  give  me  at  that  day;  and  not  to  me  only,  but  unto 
all  them  also  that  love  His  appearing. 


108  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD. 

Phil  8,  20.  21. 
For  our  conversation  is  in  heaven,  from  whence  also  we 
look  for  the  Savior,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ:  who  shall  change 
our  vile  body,  that  it  may  be  fashioned  like  unto  His  glorious 
body,  according  to  the  working  whereby  He  is  able  even  to 
subdue  all  things  unto  Himself. 

In   place   of   the  Lessons    the  following  Exhortation   may    oe  read: 

Beloved  in  the  Lord:  Forasmuch  as  it  hath  pleased  Almighty 
God  in  His  good  providence  to  call  this  brother  out  of  this  present 
life,  it  becometh  us,  before  committing  his  body  to  the  earth, 
to  hear  in  our  bereavement  the  admonition  and  comfort  of  God's 
holy  Word.  Thus  saith  the  Lord:  "Dust  thou  art,  and  unto 
dust  shalt  thou  return.  By  one  man  sin  entered  into  the  world 
and  death  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that 
all  have  sinned."  There  is  no  respect  of  persons;  we  die  the 
common  death  of  all  men;  for  the  wages,  of  sin  is  death.  May 
we,  then,  with  a  deep  sense  of  our  sinfulness  humble  ourselves 
under  the  mighty  hand  of  God,  before  whom  we  are  dust,  and 
earnestly  ponder  the  rapid  flight  of  our  days.  Man  that  is 
born  of  a  woman  is  of  few  days  and  full  of  trouble.  He  cometh 
forth  like  a  flower,  and  is  cut  down ;  he  fleeth  also  as  a  shadow, 
and  continueth  not.  We  cannot  but  say  with  David:  "Behold, 
Thou  hast  made  my  days  as  an  handbreadth;  and  mine  age  is 
as  nothing  before  Thee.  Verily,  every  man  at  his  best  estate  is 
altogether  vanity."  But  blessed  be  God,  even  the  Father  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of  mercies  and  the  God  of  all 
comfort,  who  hath  loved  us,  and  hath  given  us  everlasting  con- 
solation and  good  hope  through  grace,  and  hath  begotten  us 
again  unto  a  lively  hope  by  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ 
from  the  dead. 

For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even  so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made 
alive.  Being  delivered  for  our  offenses,  He  was  raised  again  for 
our  justification,  and  hath  brought  life  and  immortality  to  light 
through  the  Gospel.  He  is  the  First-fruits  of  them  that  sleep, 
and  saith :  "I  am  the  Resurrection  and  the  Life :  he  that  be- 
lieveth  in  Me,  though  he  were  dead,  yet  shall  he  live;  and 
whosoever  liveth  and  believeth  in  Me  shall  never  die."  There- 
fore in  life  and  in  death  He  is  our  comfort;  for  through  Him 
the  death  of  His  own  is  swallowed  up  in  victory,  and  by  faith 


THE   Bl'KIAL   OF   THE   DEAD.  109 

in  Him  we  have  part  in  His  gracious  promise:  This  corruptible 
must  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  must  put  on  im- 
mortality. It  is  sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in  power;  it  is 
sown  in  dishonor,  it  is  raised  in  glory.  And  as  we  have  borne 
the  image  of  the  earthy,  we  shall  also  bear  the  image  of  the 
heavenly,  the  image  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  shall  change 
our  vile  body,  that  it  may  be  fashioned  like  unto  His  glo- 
rious body. 

Therefore  we  sorrow  not,  even  as  others  that  have  no  hope, 
but  lift  up  our  heads,  knowing  that  our  Redeemer  liveth,  and 
that  the  souls  of  the  righteous  are  in  the  hand  of  God,  where 
no  torment  shall  touch  them.  Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die 
in  the  Lord  from  henceforth;  yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they 
may  rest  from  their  labors;    and  their  works  do  follow  them. 

Every  man  that  hath  this  hope  in  Him  purifieth  himself, 
even  as  Christ  is  pure.  For  we  must  all  appear  before  the 
judgment-seat  of  Christ,  that  every  one  may  receive  the  things 
done  in  his  body,  according  to  that  he  hath  done,  whether  it  be 
good  or  bad.  Therefore,  beloved,  let  us  escape  the  corruption 
that  is  in  the  world  through  lust,  and  seek  now,  in  the  day.  of 
salvation,  the  one  thing  needful,  which  shall  not  be  taken  away 
from  us.  Let  us  fight  the  good  fight  of  faith,  and  lay  hold  on 
eternal  life,  whereunto  we  are  also  called.  May  we  be  found 
in  constant  readiness  for  the  final  summons,  ever  waiting  for 
our  Lord  and  purifying  our  souls  in  obeying  the  truth  through 
His  Spirit,  that,  through  His  power  resting  upon  us,  we  may 
overcome  the  world,  and  be  counted  worthy  at  last  to  reign  with 
Him  eternally  in  heaven.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

Let  us  pray 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  who  hast  appointed  us 
to  endure  sufferings  and  death  with  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be- 
fore we  enter  with  Him  into  glory:  grant  us  grace  at  all  times 
to  submit  ourselves  to  Thy  holy  will,  to  continue  steadfast  in 
the  true  faith  unto  the  end,  and  to  find  peace  and  joy  in  the 
blessed  hope  of  the  resurrection  of  the  dead,  and  of  the  glory 
of  the  world  to  come;    through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

For  other  prayers  see  following  pages. 
The  service  may  close  icith  a   Hymn. 


110  THE   BURIAL   OK   THE   DEAD. 

B.    AT  THE  CHURCH. 

The  service  may  begin  with  a  Hymn. 
Then  may   the  Minister  say: 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 

The  Congregation  shall  sing  or  say: 

And  with  thy  spirit. 

The  Minister  shall  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

1. 

Almighty  God,  with  whom  do  live'  the  spirits  of  those  who 
depart  hence  in  the  Lord,  and  with  whom  the  souls  of  the  faith- 
ful, after  they  are  delivered  from  the  burden  of  the  flesh,  are 
in  joy  and  happiness:  we  give  Thee  hearty  thanks  for  Thy 
loving-kindness  to  all  those  Thy  servants,  who,  having  finished 
their  course  in  faith,  do  now  rest  from  their  labors.  And  we 
beseech  Thee  that  we,  with  all  those  who  are  departed  in  the 
true  faith  of  Thy  holy  name,  may  have  our  perfect  consum- 
mation and  bliss,  both  in  body  and  soul,  in  Thy  eternal  and 
everlasting  glory;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

2. 
0  Lord,  almighty  and  merciful  God,  who  through  death 
callest  us  out  of  this  wicked  world,  that  we  may  not  perish 
through  continued  sinning,  but  attain  life  and  glory  everlasting, 
we  beseech  Thee,  fill  our  hearts  with  a  deep  sense  of  Thy  mercy, 
that  we  may  look  forward  with  rejoicing  to  our  departure,  and 
willingly  obey  the  summons  to  enter  into  Thy  kingdom;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

3. 
0  almighty,  everlasting  God  and  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that 
Thou  hast  given  Thine  only-begotten  Son  Jesus  Christ  into  death 
for  us,  and  through  His  triumphant  resurrection  hast  given  us 
assurance  of  eternal  life,  and  we  beseech  Thee,  comfort  and  raise 
us  up  with  this  assurance,  and  at  last  let  us  come  unto  eternal 
rest  with  Thee;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

4. 
0   Thou   ever-blessed   Mediator,   who   wast   dead,   but  livest 
forever,    of    whom    the   whole    family    in    heaven    and    earth    is 
named,   and  who  hast  knit   all   Thy   saints   in   one  communion 


THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD.  Ill 

unto  life  eternal,  in  that  mystical  body  of  which  Thou  art  the 
glorious  and  ever-living  Head:  grant  us  grace  so  to  follow  Thy 
blessed  saints  who  have  gone  before  us,  in  the  faith  and  fellow- 
ship of  Thy  holy  Church,  that  we  may  come  to  those  unspeakable 
joys  which  Thou  hast  prepared  for  all  that  love  Thee,  from  the 
foundation  of  the  world.    Amen. 

5. 
0  holy  and  ever-blessed  Spirit,  who  art  one  with  the  Father 
and  the  Son,  and  who  dwellest  in  all  Thy  saints  to  comfort  and 
quicken  them:  do  Thou,  we  beseech  Thee,  comfort  us  in  the 
prospect  of  death  with  the  hope  of  the  resurrection  of  the  just, 
and  abide  in  us,  that  we  may  ever  walk  in  Thy  truth,  and  in 
the  end  be  found  Worthy  of  everlasting  life;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

6. 
0  holy  and  adorable  Trinity,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost, 
Creator,  Redeemer,  and  Sanctifier  of  our  bodies  and  souls,  we 
humbly  confess  our  sins,  and  acknowledge  them  as  the  cause  of 
our  misery  and  death,  and  that  on  account  of  our  sins  Thou  art 
justly  displeased.  Yet,  through  infinite  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ, 
we  implore  Thee,  blot  out  our  transgressions,  wash  us  from  our 
iniquity,  and  cleanse  us  from  our  sin.  0  Lord  God  most  holy, 
0  Lord  God  most  mighty,  0  holy  and  most  merciful  Savior, 
deliver  us  not   into   the  bitter   pains   of   eternal   death.    Amen. 

7 
Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts :  shut  not 
Thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayer,  but  spare  us,  Lord  most  holy, 
0  God  most  mighty,  0  holy  and  merciful  Savior,  Thou  most 
worthy  Judge  eternal,  suffer  us  not,  at  our  last  hour,  for  any 
pains  of  death,  to  fall  from  Thee.  But  keep  us  in  everlasting 
fellowship  with  the  Church  Triumphant,  and  let  us  rest  together 
in  Thy  presence  from  our  labors;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord,  who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
ever,  one  God,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

Then  shall  a  Scripture-lesson  be  read. 
After  the  Lesson  a  Hymn  may  be  sung,  follou-ed   by   the  Sermon  and  another 
.      Hymn. 


112  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE  DEAD. 

Then  shall  a  Prayer  oe  offered,  ex  corde,  or  as  follows: 

0  God  the  Father  in  heaven,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
0  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
0  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  grant  us 
Thy  peace. 

Let  us  pray 

At  the  Death  of  a  Child. 
1. 
0  Lord,  almighty,  heavenly  Father,  who  art  a  God  of  all 
comfort,  and  dost  bid  us  mourn  with  the  afflicted,  we  beseech 
Thee,  Thou  wouldst  with  Thy  gracious  Spirit  comfort  our  brother 
and  sister,  who  are  mourning  the  loss  of  their  beloved  child. 
Enable  them  in  steadfast  faith  and  confident  hope  to  look  for 
the  blessed  day  of  our  final  redemption,  when  all  who  believe 
in  Thee  shall  meet  again  in  heavenly  joy  and  glory;  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

2. 

Almighty  God,  heavenly  Father,  who,  in  Thy  wise  and  gra- 
cious providence,  hast  called  out  of  this  world  the  soul  of  this 
dear  child,  we  thank  Thee  for  Thy  mercy  in  receiving  him  as 
Thine  own  in  Holy  Baptism  and  regenerating  him  unto  the  in- 
heritance of  Thine  eternal  kingdom.  And  we  beseech  Thee,  send 
forth  the  consolations  of  Thy  holy  Word  into  the  hearts  that 
mourn  over  his  early  death.  Give  to  the  afflicted  parents  a  meek 
submission  to  Thy  fatherly  chastenings,  that  with  childlike  faith 
they  may  praise  Thine  unsearchable  ways.  Thou  hast  cut  down 
the  flower  in  tender  bud,  help  them  also  to  see  Thy  gracious 
hand  in  what  they  suffer,  and  to  realize  that  what  has  faded 
from  them  here  still  blooms  immortal  in  the  heavens,  and  that 
they  shall  behold  their  child  again  in  the  joy  of  everlasting  life. 
Let  Thy  grace  abound  in  them,  comforting  them  in  their  be- 
reavement, lest  they  sorrow  beyond  what  is  meet  and  right.  Gra- 
ciously overrule  this  dispensation  to  their  spiritual  good,  that 
they  may  be  drawn  into  still  closer  communion  with  Thee,  and 
the  better  fitted  for  a  devoted  life  and  a  glorious  immortality. 
Grant  unto  us  all,  while  we  sojourn  here  on  earth,  the  aid  of 
Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  continue  steadfast  in  faith  and 
in  Thy  fear,  and  finally  appear  in  Thy  presence  with  exceeding 
joy;    for  the  sake  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 


TIIK   BURIAL   OF   TMK   DEAD;  1  Id 

At  thk  Death  of  an  Adult. 

1. 
Almighty  God,  heavenly  Father,  we  thank  and  praise  Thee 
that  Thou  hast  called  this  our  brother  to  the  knowledge  of  Thy 
>n,  kept  him  in  the  true  faith,  and  granted  him  a  blessed 
end;  and  we  beseech  Thee,  help  us  by  Thy  Hoi/ Spirit  rightly 
to  know  and  lament  our  sins,  and  to  be  so  strengthened  in 
our  faith  in  Christ  that  in  all  things  we  may  grow  up  into  llim 
who  is  our  Head,  evermore  praising  Thee  in  newness  of  life, 
and  cheerfully  awaiting  that  blessed  hope  and  glorious  appearing 
of  the  great  God  and  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ,  who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 

2. 

0  most  merciful  God,  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
under  the  shadow  of  Thy  sore  judgments  we  come  to  Thee  as 
our  only  Helper.  Thou  art  the  Lord,  and  beside  Thee  there 
is  none  other.  Thou  art  a  very  present  help  in  trouble.  Thou 
hast  entered  this  house  with  Thy  chastenings,  and  hast  here 
caused  Thy  sovereign  power  to  be  felt.  Oh,  be  Thou  nigh,  in 
Thy  tender  compassion,  with  the  comforts  of  the  Holy  Spirit. 
Bless  these  Thy  sorrowing  servants  with  the  consolations  of  Thy 
grace,  which  alone  can  afford  them  help.  Take  them  into  Thy 
gracious  keeping,  and  fill  their  bleeding  hearts  with  the  soothing 
balm  of  Thy  love.  Let  there  be  light  in  the  midst  of  this  dark 
night  of  grief.  Deliver  us  all,  0  God,  from  the  bondage  of 
our  sins,  that  we  may  be  free  from  the  fear  of  death,  and  be 
ready  at  Thy  call  to  depart  hence  and  be  at  peace.  Whether  we 
live,  may  we  live  unto  the  Lord,  or  whether  we  die,  may  we 
die  unto  the  Lord.  And  so  unite  us  to  Christ  Jesus,  and  work 
in  us  by  the  sanctifying  influences  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  that, 
whether  living  or  dying,  we  may  be  the  Lord's.    Amen. 

3. 
0  merciful  God,  heavenly  Father,  forasmuch  as  it  hath 
pleased  Thee  to  summon  another  member  of  our  congregation 
out  of  this  present  life,  and  again  to  remind  us  that  our  life 
appeareth  only  for  a  little  time:  we  beseech  Thee,  gird  us  with 
the  power  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that,  amidst  the  vanities  of  this 

LITURGY    AND   AGENDA.  •  8 


114  THE  BURIAL   OF   THE  DEAD. 

world,  we  may  fight  a  good  fight  and  keep  the  faith,  thus 
finishing  the  course  of  our  pilgrimage  on  earth  in  all  holy 
obedience,  in  constant  watchfulness  and  prayer,  lest  death  come 
upon  us  unawares  and  find  us  unprepared.  Comfort  «us  in  the 
hour  of  death  with  the  bitter  sufferings  and  death  of  Thy  Son, 
who  was  delivered  for  our  offenses  and  raised  again  for  our 
justification,  that  we  may  depart  this  life  at  peace  with  Thee 
and  receive  the  crown  of  righteousness;  through  Thy  dear  Son, 
our  Lord  and  Redeemer,  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 


Almighty,  eternal  God,  Thy  years  are  throughout  all  genera- 
tions, we,  however,  shall  perish  in  time;  for  all  flesh  is  as  grass, 
and  all  the  glory  of  man  as  the  flower  of  grass.  The  grass 
withereth,  and  the  flower  thereof  falleth  away.  Make  us  to 
know  our  end  and  the  measure  of  our  days  what  it  is,  that  we 
may  know  how  frail  we  are,  daily  trim  our  lamps,  and  wait 
by  faith  for  a  blessed  end.  Suffer  not  the  thoughts  and  the 
sting  of  death  to  make  us  afraid,  but  let  us  at  all  times  look 
unto  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  abolished  death,  and  hath 
brought  life  and  immortality  to  light  through  the  Gospel.  Keep 
us  by  Thy  Spirit  m  faith  and  good  conscience;  for  he  that 
soweth  to  his  flesh  shall  of  the  flesh  reap  corruption;  but  he 
that  soweth  to  the  Spirit  shall  of  the  Spirit  reap  life  everlasting. 
At  the  removal  of  our  loved  ones  who  die  in  the  Lord,  enable 
us  to  understand  that  they  are  blessed  from  henceforth,  and  go 
to  Thee,  where  there  shall  be  neither  sorrow  nor  crying,  neither 
any  more  pain,  and  where  Thou  shalt  wipe  away  all  tears  from 
their  eyes.  0  Lord  God,  Thou  beholdest  all  our  affliction  and 
pain,  the  poor  commit  themselves  unto  Thee,  Thou  art  the 
Helper  of  the  widows  and  the  fatherless.  Be  pleased  to  appear 
with  Thy  strong  comfort  to  all  that  are  afflicted  and  distressed, 
and  finally  present  them,  together  with  the  dead  for  whom  they 
mourn,  before  Thy  presence  with  exceeding  joy.  When  our  last 
hour  shall  come,  let  us,  .Thy  servants,  depart  in  peace.  Pre- 
serve us  from  a  sudden,  evil  death;  let  us,  being  full  of  faith 
and  rich  in  the  fruits  of  righteousness,  commit  our  spirit  into 
Thy  hands,  and  thus  finish  our  course,  and  lay  hold  on  eternal 
life.    Amen. 


THE   in  RIAL  "I    THE   DEAD.  I  I  - 

5. 


o    Lord    Cod,   who   hast    called   this   our   departed    brother 
hence  in  the  noontide  of  his  life  and  labors,  we  humble  our- 
selves  under  Thy  holy  will,  and   reverence  Thy  ways,  although 
Thy  judgments  are  unsearchable  and  Thy  ways  past  finding  out. 
For  Thou  thickest  towards  us  thoughts  of  peace  and  not  ot  evil, 
and  all  things  work  together  for  good  to  them  that  love    rhee. 
We  thank  Thee  that,  of  Thy  fatherly  love,  Thou  didst  bestow 
upon  this  our  brother  Thy  merciful  guidance,  Thy  faithful  pro- 
tection, and  Thy  constant  blessing  in  body  and  soul,  even  unto 
the  end      We  beseech  Thee  to  comfort,  with  Thy  holy  Word, 
the  hearts  of  those  who  are  bowed  down  by  his  death,  and  to 
strengthen  them  by  the  assurance  that  even  through  crosses  and 
trials"  Thou  wouldst  bless  them,  and  dost  chasten  Thy  children, 
not  to  deslrov  them,  but  that  they  may  live.     Enable  us  all  to 
lay  to  heart   that  our   sojourning  on  earth   is   but   for  a   little 
time,  that  we  may  diligently  ponder,  in  this  our  day,  the  things 
which  belong  unto  our  peace.       Sanctify  us  through  Thy  truth, 
and  purify  our  hearts  by  faith,  that  we  may  not  love  the  fleeting 
pleasures  of  this  world,  but,  ordering  our  lives  agreeably  to  Thy 
will    seek   those  things   that   arc  above,  and  at  the  last  appear 
before  Thy  presence  in  peace  and  joy.     Grant  all  this,  we  pray 
Thee,   for 'the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  dear  Son.    Amen. 
6. 
We  thank  Thee,  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  Thou  hast  taken 
our  brother  away  from   distress,  and  brought  him   into  eternal 
rest.     0  dear  Savior,  we  say  with  Job:    "The  Lord  gave,  and 
the  Lord  hath  taken  away,  blessed  be  the  name  of  the  Lord    ; 
and  with  the  people  in  the  Gospel:    "He  hath  done  all  things 
well"     Enable   us   to  comfort  ourselves  with   the   consideration 
that  we  have  not  lost  him,  but  only  sent   him    before,   now.se 
doubting  that  on  the  last  day  Thou  wilt  raise  up  with    power 
and  -rent  glory  the  dead  body  here  lying  before  us  in  weakness 
and  that  wo  shall  find  one  another  again  with  Thee  in  eternal 
life      May   it   also  please  Thee  to  grant   us  the  grace   ot     I'l.y 
TIolv  Soirit  that  at  this  burial  we  may  call  to  mind  how  soon 
it  is  all  over  with  men,  and  be  found  in  constant   and   never- 
failing  Christian  readiness  to  follow  Thee,  when  the  hour  is  at 
hand,  through  the  dark  valley  of  death  into  Thy  kingdom  with 
exceeding  joy;    0   Thou,   who,   with   the   Father   and    the    Holy 
Ghost,  livest  and  reignest,  world   without  end.    Amen. 


U$  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD. 


(At  the  Death  of  a  Husband  and  Father.) 
Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  in  whose  hands  are  all 
the  children  of  men,  teach  us  to  number  our  days,  that  we  may 
apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom.  Give  us  grace  to  live  by  faith 
in  Thy  dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  and  to  do  what  our  hands  find 
to  do,  that,  when  He  who  is  our  life  shall  appear,  we  also  may 
appear  with  Him  in  glory.  To  Thy  fatherly  goodness  do  we 
commend  those  whom  Thou  hast  afflicted  by  this  dispensation  of 
Thy  providence.  Let  the  pains  of  their  bereavement  be  softened 
by  the  hopeful  assurances  of  Thy  holy  Word.  Cause  the  fruits 
of  this  their  sore  chastening  to  be  righteousness  and  peace.  Let 
the  removal  of  their  beloved  and  cherished  one  serve  to  direct 
their  affections  heavenward,  that  they  may  seek  those  things 
which  are  above,  where  Christ  sitteth.  Be  Thou  a  Father  to 
the  fatherless  and  a  Helper  to  the  widow.  Remember  to  them 
Thy  gracious  covenant  of  old,  and  let  not  Thy  mercy  depart 
from  them.  Fulfil  unto  them  Thy  blessed  promise  that  all  things 
shall  work  together  for  good  to  them  that  love  Thee.  May 
they  not  sorrow  as  those  who  have  no  hope,  but  have  abundant 
consolations  for  all  their  griefs,  and  a  far  more  exceeding  and 
eternal  weight  of  glory  for  all  their  sufferings  in  this  life.  These 
blessings,  and  all  others  which  may  be  needful  for  us,  and  for 
all  men,  we  humbly  ask,  in  the  name  and  for  the  sake  of  our 
blessed  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 


(At  the  Death  of  a  Christian   Wife  and  Mother.) 

Eternal  God,  merciful  Father,  look  graciously  upon  us, 
bowed  down  as  we  are  with  grief  at  the  loss  of  a  Christian 
sister,  a  beloved  wife  and  mother,  whom  we  are  about  to  ac- 
company (have  accompanied)  to  her  last  earthly  resting-place. 
Teach  us,  0  Father,  that  Thy  thoughts  are  higher  than  our 
thoughts,  and  Thy  ways  better  than  our  ways,  that  we  may  sub- 
mit ourselves  with  childlike  resignation  to  Thy  inscrutable,  but 
fatherly  counsel  and  dispensation,  and  amid  all  grief  be  able  to 
say :  "Thou  doest  all  things  well."  Help  us  call  to  mind  the 
manifold  mercies  which  from  her  youth  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon 
our  departed  sister,  in  receiving  her  by  Holy  Baptism  as  Thine 
own  dear  child,  comforting  her  with  the  forgiveness  of  sins  in 


THE  M  RIAL  <ii     I  in:    DEAD.  1  Vt 

Christ  Jesus,  guiding  hsr  feel  into  the  paths  of  uprightness, 
enabling  her  by  word  and  example  to  show  forth  Thy  praises 
in  bei  homo  and  in  the  circle  of  her  acquaintances,  giving  her 
in  davs  of  trial  countless  proofs  of  Thy  mercy,  and  removing 
her  at  length  from  all  earthly  sorrow  into  the  unending  joy 
of  heaven.  Let  ns  not  mourn  like  those  who  have  no  hope,  for 
blessed  indeed  are  the  dead  that  die  in  the  Lord  from  hence- 
forth. Enable  us  to  comfort  ourselves  with  the  assurance  that 
Thou  wilt  raise  up  with  power  and  glory  the  body  here  sown  in 
weakness,  and  that  we  shall  behold  her  again  with  Thee  in  ever- 
lasting life.  Comfort,  especially,  the  hearts  of  those  who  are 
bowed  down  and  sorely  afflicted  by  this  death,  the  husband  and 
children  of  our  beloved  sister,  with  the  consolations  of  Thy  grace, 
which  alone  can  afford  them  help.  Take  them  into  Thy  gra- 
cious keeping,  and  fill  their  bleeding  hearts  with  the  soothing 
balm  of  Thy  love.  Let  there  be  light  in  the  midst  of  this 
dark  night  of  their  grief,  and  finally  present  them,  together  with 
the  mother  for  whom  they  mourn,  before  Thy  presence  with  ex- 
ceeding joy.  Teach  us  all  to  apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom; 
and  when  our  last  hour  shall  come,  be  with  us  in  our  final 
distress,  that  we  may  look  with  steadfast  faith  to  Christ,  the 
only  Savior  of  our  souls,  and,  being  cleansed  by  His  blood,  may 
lay  hold  on  eternal  life.    Amen. 

9. 

(At   the   Death   of   an   Aged    Person.) 

0  Lord,  almighty  Cod  and  Father,  who  of  old  didst  de- 
clare: "Even  to  your  old  age  1  am  He;  and  even  to  hoar  hairs 
will  I  carry  you:  I  have  made,  and  I  will  hear:  even  I  will 
carry,  and  will  deliver  you":  we  thank  Thee  that,  according  to 
Thy  promise,  Thou  hast,  for  so  many  years,  shown  our  deceased 
brother  innumerable  proofs  of  Thy  faithfulness  and  mercy.  We 
thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  granted  him  ample  time  for  reflec- 
tion upon  Thy  merciful  kindness  to  the  fallen  children  of  men, 
and  hast  given  him  to  drink  of  that  well  of  water  which 
springc-th  up  into  everlasting  life.  And  we  thank  Thee  that  now 
Thou  hast,  of  Thy  mercy,  delivered  him  from  all  the  labor  and 
sorrow  of  this  present  life,  and  received  him  into  the  rest  and 
peace  of  Thy  heavenly  kingdom.  Grant  unto  us  all,  we  beseech 
Thee,  that  we  may  make  ready  for  the  unknown   hour  and    for 


1  jy  THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD. 

a  blessed  departure  from  this  world.  Enable  us  to  employ  well 
our  allotted  time,  and  to  work  while  it  is  day,  ere  the  night 
cometh  when  no  man  can  work.  And,  at  the  last,  do  Thou  in 
love  deliver  our  souls  from  despair,  and  let  us  fall  asleep  in 
peace,  and  obtain  the  crown  of  everlasting  glory;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy   Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

10. 

(At  the   Sudden   Death  of  a   Christian.) 

0  eternal  God,  the  Lord  of  life  and  death,  who  by  a  sudden 
death  hast  summoned  out  of  time  into  eternity  our  Christian 
brother,  whom  we  are  about  to  commit  to  the  grave,  and  by  Ms 
unexpected  departure  hast  grievously  afflicted  those  to  whom  he 
was  near  and  dear:  we  beseech  Thee,  comfort  with  Thine  abun- 
dant consolations  the  hearts  of  those  that  mourn,  and  take  them 
into  Thy  fatherly  care.  Enable  them  to  bear  this  sore  dispen- 
sation with  meek  submission  to  Thy  holy  will,  knowing  that 
all  things  work  together  for  good  to  them  that  love  Thee.  Grant 
us  grace  also,  that  we  may  be  ready,  either  to  continue  in  life, 
or  to  depart  hence,  even  as  Thou  hast  appointed  for  us,  and 
cheerfully  to  bear  whatsoever  burden  Thou  mayest  be  pleased  to 
put  upon  us.  Verily,  every  man  at  his  best  state  is  altogether 
vanity.  Surely,  every  man  walketh  in  a  vain  show.  Teach  us 
to  watch  and  pray,  and  keep  us  by  Thy  Spirit,  that  we  may 
not  be  ensnared  by  the  vanities  of  this  time,  but  finish  well  our 
course,  and  pass  from  death  to  life  everlasting;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  Thy   Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Then  may  the  Minister  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  .and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understanding,  keep 
your  hearts  and  minds  through  Christ  Jesus.    Amen. 

Then  may  another  Hymn  be  sung. 


THE   BURIAL   OF   THE   DEAD.  119 

C.   AT  THE  GRAVE. 

The  Minister,    walking   before    those   that   bear   the   body,  and   approaching    the 
grave,   may   say: 

I  know  that  my  Redeemer  lrveth,  and  that  He  shall  stand 
at  the  latter  day  upon  the  earth.  And  though  after  my  skin 
worms  destroy  this  body,  yet  in  my  flesh  shall  I  see  God:  whom 
I  shall  see  for  myself,  and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not 
another.     (Job   19,   25—27.) 

We  brought  nothing  into  this  world,  and  it  is  certain  we 
can  carry  nothing  out.    (1  Tim.  6,  7.) 

The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away;  blessed  be 
the  name  of  the  Lord.     (Job  1,   21.) 

I  would  not  have  you  to  be  ignorant,  brethren,  concerning 
them  which  are  asleep,  that  ye  sorrow  not,  even  as  others  which 
have  no  hope.  For  if  we  believe  that  Jesus  died  and  rose  again, 
even  so  also  them  which  sleep  in  Jesus  will  God  bring  with  Him. 
(1  Thess.  4,  13.  14.) 

I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven  saying,  Write,  Blessed  are  the 
dead  which  die  in  the  Lord  from  henceforth;  yea,  saith  the 
Spirit,  that  they  may  rest  from  their  labors;  and  their  works 
do  follow  them.     (Rev.   14,  13.) 

When   the  casket  is  lowered  into  the  grave,  a  Hymn  may  be  sung,  and   then 
the  Minister  shall   say: 

Man  that  is  born  of  a  woman  is  of  few  days  and  full  of 
trouble.  He  cometh  forth  like  a  flower,  and  is  cut  down;  he 
fleeth  also  as  a  shadow,  and  continueth  not. 

In  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death.  Of  whom  may  we 
seek  for  succor  but  of  Thee,  0  Lord,  who  for  our  sins  art 
justly  displeased? 

Yet,  0  Lord  God  most  holy,  0  Lord  most  mighty,  0  holy 
and  most  merciful  Savior,  deliver  us  not  into  the  bitter  pains 
of  eternal   death. 

Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts;  shut  not 
Thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayers;  but  spare  us,  Lord  most 
holy ;  0  God  most  mighty,  0  holy  and  most  merciful  Savior, 
Thou  most  worthy  Judge  eternal,  suffer  us  not,  at  our  last  hour, 
for  any  pains  of  "death  to  fall  from  Thee. 

So  also  is  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  It  is  sown  in  cor- 
ruption :  it  is  raised  in  incorruption.  It  is  sown  in  dishonor ; 
it  is  raised  in  glory.  It  is  sown  in  weakness;  it  is  raised  in 
power.     It  is  sown  a  natural  body;    it  is  raised  a  spiritual  body. 


tW  THE  BURIAL   OF  THE   DEAD. 

There  is  a  natural  body,  and  there  is  a  spiritual  body.  For 
this  corruptible  must  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  must 
put  on  immortality.  So  when  this  corruptible  shall  have  put 
on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  shall  have  put  on  immortality, 
then  shall  be  brought  to  pass  the  saying  that  is  written,  Death 
is    swallowed    up    in    victory.      0    death,    where    is    thy    sting? 

0  grave,  where  is  thy  victory?  The  sting  of  death  is  sin;  and 
the  strength  of  sin  is  the  Law.  But  thanks  be  to  God,  which 
giveth  us  the  victory  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  (1  Cor. 
15,  42—44.   53—57.) 

Then,  while  earth  shall  be  cast  upon  the  casket,  the  Minister  shall  say: 

Forasmuch  as  it  hath  pleased  Almighty  God,  in  His  wise 
providence,  to  take  out  of  this  world  the  soul  of  our  departed 
brother,  we  therefore  commit  his  body  to  the  ground  (to  God's 
acre)  ;  earth  to*  earth,  ashes  to  ashes,  dust  to  dust :  in  the  hope 
of  the  resurrection  to  eternal  life,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
who  shall  change  our  vile  body  that  it  may  be  fashioned  like 
unto  His  glorious  hody,  according  to  the  working  whereby  He 
is  able  even  to  subdue  all  things  unto  Himself. 

May  God  the  Father,  who  has  created  this  body; 

May  God  the  Son,  who  by  His  blood  has  redeemed  this  body 
together  with  the  soul; 

May  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  by  Baptism  lias  sauctified 
this  body  to  be  His  temple,  — 

Keep  these  remains  unto  the  day  of  resurrection  of  all 
flesh.    Amen. 

I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven  saying  unto  me,  Write,  Blessed 
are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord  from  henceforth:  yea,  saith 
the  Spirit,  that  they  may  rest  from  their  labors;  and  their 
works  do  follow  them.    (Rev.  14,  13.) 

I  know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth,  and  that  He  shall  stand 
at  the  latter  day  upon  the  earth.  And  though  after  my  skin 
worms  destroy  this  body,  yet  in  my  flesh  shall  I  see  God;    whom 

1  shall  see  for  myself,  and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not 
another.     (Job  19,  25—27.) 

Then  may  the  Minister  say  one  of   the  following   Prayers: 

Let  us  pray. 

1. 

0  everlasting  God  and  Father,  who  art  not  a  God  of  the 
dead,  but  of  the  living,  and  unto  whom  live  all  that  dwell  in 
dust  and  rest  in  the  chambers  of  death;    we  entreat   Thee  of 


THE    BUIUAL    OF    THE    DEAD.  |  •>  \ 

Thy  fatherly  goodness,  lot  not  the  thoughts  and  the  sting  of 
d.ath  make  us  afraid,  neither  let  us  he  troubled,  but  graciously 
keep  us  in  Thy  Sun  in  true  faith  and  good  conscience,  to  the 
end  that  we  may  lead  a  Christian  life,  prepare  for  a  blesssed 
departure,  and,  finally,  fall  asleep  and  rest  in  peace  and  joy, 
until  Thou  dost  open  our  graves,  and,  by  the  sound  of  the 
trumpet,  call  us  forth  again  to  life;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

2. 

Almighty  God,  who  by  the  death  of  Thy  Son  hast  over- 
come sin  and  death,  and  by  His  resurrection  hast  restored  inno- 
cence and  everlasting  life,  to  the  end  that  we  should  be  delivered 
from  the  dominion  of  the  devil,  and  that  by  the  power  of  the 
same  resurrection  our  mortal  bodies  should  be  raised  up  from 
the  dead  unto  eternal  life  in  Thy  kingdom :  grant  that  with 
our  whole  heart  we  may  confidently  believe  this,  and  finally,  with 
all  Thy  saints,  be  partakers  of  the  joyful  resurrection  of  the 
just;   through  the  same  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

3. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  by  Thy  Son  hast  promised 
us  forgiveness  of  sin  and  deliverance  from  everlasting  (hath: 
strengthen  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  our 
trust  in  Thy  grace  in  Christ  Jesus  may  daily  increase,  and  that 
with  sure  confidence  we  may  hold  fast  the  blessed  hope  that  we 
shall  not  die,  but  only  sleep,  and  at  the  last  day  be  raised  up 
unto  everlasting  life;  through  the  same  Jesus  Christ.  Thy  Son, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

4. 

0  I>ord  Jesus  Christ,  who  wilt  come  again  in  majesty  to 
judge  the  quick  and  the  dead,  and  call  forth  all  who  sleep  in 
the  graves,  either  to  the  resurrection  of  life  or  to  the  resurrec- 
tion of  condemnation:  we  beseech  Thee  to  be  gracious  unto  us, 
and  to  raise  us  from  the  death  of  sin  unto  the  life  of  right- 
eousness, that,  when  we  shall  depart  this  life,  we  may  rest  in 
Thee,  and,  having  been  found  acceptable  in  Thy  sight,  may,  on 
the  last  day,  be  raised  up  to  life  everlasting  and  inherit  the 
kingdom  prepared  for  us  from  the  foundation  of  the  world.  To 
Thee  he  glory  and  praise,  world   without  end.    Amen. 


\%%  THE  BURIAL  OF  THE  DEAD. 

5. 
Almighty  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  who,  in  Thy  perfect 
wisdom  and  mercy,  hast  ended  for  Thy  servants  departed  the 
voyage  of  this  troublous  life,  grant,  we  beseech  Thee,  that  we, 
who  are  still  to  continue  our  course  amidst  earthly  dangers, 
temptations,  and  troubles,  may  evermore  be  protected  by  Thy 
mercy,  and  finally  come  to  the  haven  of  eternal  salvation,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

G. 
Almighty  God,  who  by  the  death  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ 
hast  destroyed  death,  by  His  rest  in  the  tomb  hast  sanctified 
the  graves  of  Thy  saints,  and  by  His  glorious  resurrection  hast 
brought  life  and  immortality  to  light  through  the  Gospel,  so  that 
all  who  die  in  Him  abide  in  joy  as  to  their  souls,  and  in  hope 
as  to  their  bodies:  receive,  we  beseech  Thee,  our  unfeigned  thanks 
for  that  victory  over  death  and  the  grave  which  He  hath  ob- 
tained for  us  and  for  all  who  sleep  in  Him;  and  keep  us,  who 
are  still  in  the  body,  in  everlasting  fellowship  with  all  that  wait 
for  Thee  on  earth,  and  with  all  that  are  around  Thee  in  heaven, 
in  union  with  Him  who  is  the  Resurrection  and  the  Life,  who 
liveth  and  reigneth,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever,  one 
God,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

Then  may  follow  the  Lord's  Prayer  and  the  Benediction: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God, 
and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  with  you  all.    Amen. 

Then  may  a  Hymn  be  sung. 


THE  ORDINATION   of  A   MINISTER,  1  .'  ', 

X.  all?  (JDr&utatum  of  a  fHtmairr. 


The   Form   given  below  may   be  used   for   Ordination   am!   Installation. 

After  the  General  Prayer,  in  the  regular  service,  a  Hymn  of  Invocation  of  the 
Holy   Spirit   may    be   sung. 

Then   the  Ordaining  Minister  and  his  assistants  shall  turn  to  the  candidate  for 

ordination,    uho    has    presented    himself    before    the    altar,    and    the    ordaining 

Minigter  shall  say: 

Dearly  Beloved  Brother:  Our  Lord  and  Savior  Jesus  Christ 
said  unto  His  disciples:  "Go  ye  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have 
commanded  you.  And,  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world."    (Matt.  28,  19.  20.) 

And  when  He  had  ascended  far  above  all  heavens,  that  He 
might  fill  all  things,  He  gave  unto  His  Church  some  apostles, 
and  some  prophets,  and  some  evangelists,  and  some  pastors  and 
teachers,  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the 
ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ.  (Eph.  4, 
10—18.) 

Whereas,  then,  after  due  examination,  you  have  been  found 
well  versed  in  Christian  doctrine  and  able  to  teach  others,  and 
have  been  called  to  the  office  of  the  holy  minstry  [in  this  Con- 
gregation], it  is  meet  and  right  that  we  should  hear  and  ponder 
what  God,  in  His  holy  Word,  inculcates  upon  His  ministers  con- 
cerning the  solemn  responsibilities  of  their  sacred  office. 

Thus  says  St.  Paul : 

"This  is  a  true  saying,  If  a  man  desireth  the  office  of 
a  bishop,  he  desireth  a  good  work."    (1  Tim.  3,  1.) 

"Let  a  man  so  account  of  us,  as  of  the  ministers  of  Christ 
and  stewards  of  the  mysteries  of  God."    (1  Cor    4,  1.) 

"Study  to  show  thyself  approved  unto  God,  a  workman  that 
needeth  not  to  be  ashamed,  rightly  dividing  the  Word  of  Truth." 
(2  Tim.  2,  15.) 

"Preach  the  Word;  be  instant  in  season,  out  of  season; 
reprove,  rebuke,  exhort  with  all  long-suffering  and  doctrine." 
(2  Tim.  4,  2.) 

"Speak  thou  the  things  which  become  sound  doctrine,  in  nil 
tilings  showing  thyself  a  pattern  of  good  works."    (Titus  2,  1.) 

"A  bishop  must  be  blameless,  as  the  steward  of  God ;    not 


124  THE  ORDINATION   OF  A   MINISTER. 

self-willed,  not  soon  angry,  not  given  to  wine,  no  striker,  not 
given  to  filthy  lucre,  but  a  lover  of  hospitality,  a  lover  of  good 
men,  sober,  just,  holy,  temperate,  holding  fast  the  faithful  Word 
as  he  hath  been  taught,  that  he  may  be  able  by  sound  doctrine 
both  to  exhort  and  to  convince  the  gainsayers."    (Titus  1,7 — 9.) 

"Moreover,  it  is  required  in  stewards  that  a  man  be  found 
faithful."    (1  Cor.  4,-2.) 

"Take  heed  unto  thyself  and  unto  the  doctrine;  continue 
in  them;  for  in  doing  this  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself,  and 
them  that  hear  thee."    (1  Tim.  4,  6.) 

The  ministers  of  Christ,  then,  are  ambassadors  for  Christ, 
and  as  such  are  to  preach  the  Word  and  administer  the  holy 
Sacraments.  They  are  appointed  to  wait  upon  and  serve  the 
Church,  which  is  the  bride  of  Jesus  Christ,  His  body  mystical; 
to  offer  before  Him  the  prayers  and  supplications  of  His  people; 
to  feed,  to  instruct,  to  watch  over,  and  guide  the  sheep  and 
lambs  of  His  flock,  whom  He  hath  purchased  with  His  own 
blood.  They  are  to  give  themselves  wholly  to  this  office,  with 
daily  meditation  and  study  of  the  Scriptures,  that  they  may  be 
able  to  make  full  proof  of  their  ministry,  being  nourished  up 
in  the  words  of  faith  and  good  doctrine,  and  showing  them- 
selves patterns  to  others  in  piety  and  godly  living. 

And  whereas,  dear  Brother,  thou  hast  accepted  the  call  ex- 
tended to  thee  [by  this  Congregation],  and  art  about  to  enter 
upon  the  performance  of  the  duties  pertaining  to  the  holy  office 
of  the  ministry,  in  accordance  with  the  Word  and  will  of  the 
Lord  most  High,  I  now  ask  thee,  in  the  presence  of  God  and 
this  Congregation: 

Dost  thou  believe  the  canonical  books  of  the  Old  and  the 
New  Testament  to  be  the  inspired  Word  of  God,  and  the  only 
infallible  rule  of  faith  and  practise? 

Answer:    I   do  so  believe. 

Dost  thou  hold  and  profess  the  doctrine  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church  as  laid  down  in  the  Symbols  contained  in  the 
Book  of  Concord  of  1580,  to  wit,  the  three  Ecumenical  Creeds, 
the  Augsburg  Confession,  the  Apology  of  the  same,  the  Smalcald 
Articles,  the  Small  and  the  Large  Catechism,  and  the  Formula 
of   Concord,   to   be   the   true   doctrine   of   the   Holy   Scriptures? 

Answer:    I  do  so  hold  and  profess,. 

Art   thou    determined   to   discharge   faithfully  the   duties   of 


THE   ORDINATION    OF   A    MINISTER.  125 

the  holy  ministry  [in  this  Congregation]  in  full  accordance  with 
the  Holy  Scriptures  and  the  said  Symbols  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church? 

Answer:    I  have  so  determined  by  the  grace  of  God. 

Then   the  person  to  be  ordained  shall  kneel,  and  the  Ordaining  Minister,  laying 
his  right  hand  on  him,  may  say: 

I  herewith  acknowledge  and  ordain  thee  a  called  and  able 
Minister  of  the  Gospel,  a  herald  of  the  kingdom  of  God,  and 
a  steward  of  His  mysteries  [and  install  thee  as  Pastor  of  this 
Congregation].  The  Lord  pour  out  upon  thee  the  Holy  Spirit 
for  the  office  and  work  committed  unto  thee  by  thy  call,  that 
thou  may  est  be  a  faithful  dispenser  of  the  means  of  grace:  in 
the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.    Amen. 

Then  the  assisting  Ministers,  in  turn,  may  lay  their  right  hands  on  the  head 

of    the   neicly   ordained,  and   pronounce   some    benediction,  such   as   Josh.  1,  8; 

Ps.  27,  1.  U;    20,  1.  2;    1   Tim.  i,  16. 

Then  shall  the  Ordaining  Minister  continue: 

Let  us  pray. 

Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  art  the  Chief  Shepherd  and  the 
only  Head  of  Thy  Church,  we  pray  Thee  that  Thou  wouldst 
keep  Thy  servant  in  Thy  holy  Word  and  the  sound  doctrine 
therein  set  forth;  that  Thou  wouldst  strengthen  him  in  the 
faithful  performance  of  the  duties  of  the  ministry  [in  this  Con- 
gregation], and  bless  his  labors  in  Thy  service,  that  Thy  holy 
name  may  be  glorified  and  Thy  kingdom  be  enlarged  here  and 
hereafter ;  who  livest  and  reignest,  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,   one   God,  forever  and   ever,   world  without  end.    Amen. 

0  Lord  God,  Heavenly  Father,  who  alone  dost  give  and 
send  forth  able  ministers  of  Thy  Church,  and  for  this  ministry 
dost  endue  them  with  power  from  on  high,  we  humbly  beseech 
Thee,  illumine  the  heart  of  this  Thy  servant,  in  the  name  of 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit*  lead  and  guide 
him  with  the  strength  of  Thy  right  hand,  that  he  may  faith- 
fully perform  the  ministry  committed  unto  him,  to  the  glory  of 
Thy  name  and  the  edification  of  all  believers,  in  the  Church  of 
Thy  dear  Son,  through  the  same  Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

Merciful  God,  Heavenly  Father,  Thou  hast  said  unto  us  by 
the  mouth  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord-    "The 


126  THE   ORDINATION   OF   A   MINISTER. 

harvest,  truly,  is  plenteous,  but  the  laborers  are  few;  pray  ye 
therefore  the  Lord  of  the  harvest  that  He  may  send  forth  laborers 
into  His  harvest":  upon  this  Thy  divine  command,  we  heartily 
pray  Thee,  give  Thy  Holy  Spirit  abundantly  to  this  Thy  ser- 
vant, to  us,  and  to  all  who  are  called  to  the  ministry  of  Thy 
Word,  that  we  may  continue  faithful  and  steadfast  against  the 
devil,  the  world,  and  the  flesh,  to  the  end  that  Thy  name  may 
be  hallowed,  Thy  kingdom  increased,  and  Thy  will  accomplished. 
We  beseech  Thee  also  that  Thou  wouldst  overrule  and  bring  to 
naught  the  counsels  of  all  Thine  enemies  that  blaspheme  Thy 
name,  hinder  Thy  kingdom,  and  resist  Thy  will;  and  in  what- 
soever place  Thy  servants  declare  Thy  name,  and  labor  in  the 
Word  and  doctrine,  establish  Thou  their  witness  and  the  work 
of  their  hands,  to  the  praise  of  Thy  most  holy  name,  and  to  the 
salvation  of  many  souls.    Amen. 

Then  the  Ordaining  Minister,  and  the  other  Ministers  with  him,  shall  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven,  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

The  newly  ordained  shall  then  rise,  and  the  Ordaining  Minister,  giving  him  his 
right  hand,  shall  say: 

Go,  then,  take  heed  unto  thyself  and  to  all  the  flock,  over 
which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  thee  an  overseer,  to  feed  the 
Church  of  God,  which  He  hath  purchased  with  His  own  blood. 
Feed  the  flock  of  Christ,  taking  the  oversight  thereof,  not  by 
constraint,  but  willingly;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready 
mind;  not  as  being  lord  over  God's  heritage,  but  being  an 
ensample  to  the  flock.  And  when  the  Chief  Shepherd  shall 
appear,  thou  shalt  receive  a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away. 
The  Lord  bless  thee  from  on  high,  and  make  thee  a  blessing 
unto  many,  that  thou  may  est  bring  forth  fruit,  and '  that  thy 
fruit  may  remain  unto  eternal  life.    Amen. 

If  the  neivly  ordained  has  also  been  installed,  he  shall  close  the  service  with 
the  Benediction. 


THE   ORDINATION    AND   INSTALLATION    OF  A   MINISTER.  1^7 

XL  (T1?p  ©rMnatum  and  JnataUatum  uf  a  ffflimatar. 


Our  Lord  and  Savior  Jesus  Christ  said  unto  His  disciples* 
"Go  ye  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of 
the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  teaching 
them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  committed  unto 
you.  And,  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of  the 
world."  "And  when  He  ascended  far  above  all  heavens,  that  He 
might  fill  all  things,  He  gave  unto  His  Church  some  apostles, 
and  some  prophets,  and  some  evangelists,  and  some  pastors  and 
teachers,  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the 
ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ." 

And  whereas  the  Archbishop  of  His  Church  has  given  unto 
this  present  congregation  a  [another]  pastor  and  teacher,  it  is 
meet  and  right  that  we  should  hear  and  ponder  what  the  Lord 
by  His  Apostles  inculcates  upon  His  ministers  concerning  their 
holy  office. 

Thus  says  St.  Paul: 

"This  is  a  true  saying:  If  a  man  desireth  the  office  of 
a  bishop,  he  desireth  a  good  work,  and  the  things  that  thou  hast 
heard  of  me  among  many  witnesses,  the  same  commit  thou  to 
faithful  men,  who  shall  be  able  to  teach  others  also.  But  lay 
hands  suddenly  on  no  man.  For  a  bishop  must  be  blameless,  as 
the  steward  of  God;  not  self-willed,  not  60on  angry,  not  given 
to  wine,  no  striker,  not  given  to  filthy  lucre,  but  a  lover  of  hos- 
pitality, a  lover  of  good  men,  sober,  just,  holy,  temperate,  holding 
fast  the  faithful  Word  as  he  hath  been  taught,  that  he  may 
be  able  by  sound  doctrine  both  to  exhort  and  to  convince  the 
gainsayers."  —  And  again:  "A  bishop  must  be  blameless,  the 
husband  of  one  wife,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  behavior,  given  to 
hospitality,  apt  to  teach,  not  given  to  wine,  no  striker,  not  greedy 
of  filthy  lucre,  but  patient,  not  a  brawler,  not  covetous,  one  that 
ruleth  well  his  own  house,  having  his  children  in  subjection  with 
all  gravity;  not  a  novice,  lest,  being  puffed  up  with  pride,  he 
fall  into  the  condemnation  of  the  devil.  Moreover,  he  must  have 
a  good  report  of  them  which  are  without,  lest  he  fall  into  re- 
proach and  the  snare  of  the  devil.  Be  thou  an  example  of  the 
believers  in  word,  in  conversation,  in  charity,  in  spirit,  in  faith, 
in  purity.  Till  I  come,  give  attendance  to  reading,  to  exhorta- 
tion, to  doctrine.     Neglect  not  the  gift  that  is  in  thee,  which 


jog  THE   ORDINATION   AND   INSTALLATION   OF  A  MINISTER. 

was  given  thee  by  prophecy,  with  the  laying  on  of  the  hands 
of  the  presbytery.  Meditate  upon  these  things;  give  thyself 
wholly  to  them,  that  thy  profiting  may  appear  to  all.  Study 
!o  show  thyself  approved  unto  God,  a  workman  that  needeth  not 
to  be  ashamed,  rightly  dividing  the  Word  of  Truth.  Take  heed 
unto  thyself  and  unto  the  doctrine;  continue  in  them;  for  in 
doing  this  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself  and  them  that  hear  thee." 

And  whereas  thou,  dearly  beloved  brother  in  Christ,  hast 
accepted  the  call  extended  to  thee  by  this  Congregation,  and  art 
about  to  enter  upon  the  performance  of  the  duties  enjoined  upon 
thee  through  such  call  in  accordance  with  the  Word  and  will  of 
the  Lord  Most  High,  I  now  ask  thee  in  the  presence  of  Omnis- 
cient God  and  of  this  Congregation: 

Dost  thou  believe  the  canonical  books  of  the  Old  and  the 
New  Testament  to  be  the  inspired  Word  of  God  and  the  only 
infallible  rule  of  faith  and  practise? 

Answer:    I  do  so  believe. 

Dost  thou  hold  and  profess  the  doctrine  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church  as  laid  down  in  the  Symbols  contained  in  the 
Book  of  Concord  of  1580,  especially,  the  three  Ecumenical  Creeds, 
the  Augsburg  Confession,  the  Apology  of  the  same,  the  Smalcald 
Articles,  the  Small  and  the  Large  Catechism,  and  the  Formula 
of  Concord,  to  be  the  true  doctrine  of  the  Holy  Scriptures? 

Answer:    I  do  so  hold  and  profess. 

Art  thou  determined  to  discharge  faithfully  the  duties  of 
the  holy  ministry  in  this  Congregation  in  full  accordance  with 
the  Holy  Scriptures  and  the  said  Symbols  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church? 

Answer:    I  have  so  determined  by  the  grace  of  God. 

The  ordained   will  here  kneel,  and   the  ordainer,   laying   his   hands  upon   him, 
will  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  art  the  Chief  Shepherd  and  the  only 
Head  of  Thy  Church,  we  pray  Thee  that  Thou  wouldst  keep 
Thy  servant  in  Thy  holy  Word  and  the  sound  doctrine  therein 
set  forth;  that  Thou  wouldst  strengthen  him  in  the  faithful 
performance  of  the  duties  of  the  ministry  in  this  Congregation, 
and  bless  his  labors  in  Thy  service,  that  Thy  holy  name  may  be 
glorified  and  Thy  kingdom  be  enlarged  here  and  hereafter,  who 
livest  and  reignest  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one 
God,  forever  and  ever,  world  without  end.    Amen. 


THE.  ORDINATION*   AND   INSTALLATION   OF  A   MINISTER.  129 

Hereupon   the  assisting   ministers   Kill,  each  in   his   turn,  lay   their  hands   upon 
the  ordained  and  say: 

The  mountains  shall  depart  and  the  hills  be  removed;  but 
My  kindness  shall  not  depart  from  thee,  neither  shall  the  cove- 
nant of  My  peace  be  removed,  saith  the  Lord  that  hath  mercy 
on  thee.    Amen. 

or: 

Thus  satth  the  Lord,,  thy  Redeemer,  the  Holy  One  of  Israel, 
I  am  the  Lord,  thy  God,  which  teacheth  thee  to  profit,  which 
leadeth  thee  by  the  way  thou  shouldest  go.    Amen. 

or: 

The  Lord  shall  preserve  thee  from  all  evil;  He  shall  pre- 
serve thy  soul.  The  Lord  shall  preserve  thy  going  out  and  thy 
coming  in  from  this  time  forth  and  even  forevermore.    Amen. 

or: 

Be  strong  and  of  good  courage;  fear  not,  nor  be  afraid; 
for  the  Lord,  thy  God,  He  it  is  that  doth  go  with  thee ;  He  will 
not  fail  thee,  nor  forsake  thee.    Amen. 

or: 

Thus  saith  the  Lord,  As  the  branch  cannot  bear  fruit  of 
itself,  except  it  abide  in  the t  vine;  no  more  can  ye,  except  ye 
abide  in  Me.  I  am  the  Vine,  ye  are  the  branches.  He  that 
abideth  in  Me,  and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth  forth  much 
fruit;    for  without  Me  ye  can  do  nothing.    Amen. 

or: 

Be  not  ashamed  of  the  Gospel  of  Christ ;  for  it  is  the  power 
of  God  unto  salvation  to  every  one  that  believeth. 

or: 

Be  fervent  in  spirit;  serving  the  Lord;  rejoicing  in  hope; 
patient  in  tribulation;    continuing  instant  in  prayer. 

or: 

Be  steadfast,  immovable,  always  abounding  in  the  work  of 
the  Lord,  forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  your  labor  is  not  in  vain 
in  the  Lord. 

Or  some  other  appropriate  text  not  already  embodied  in  this  form. 
The  ordinator  icUl  note   continue: 

Go  then,  take  heed  unto  thyself  and  to  all  the  flock,  over 
which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  thee  an  overseer,  to  feed  the 
Church  of  God,  which  He  hath  purchased  with  Hi3  own  blood. 

LITURGY   AND    AGENDA.  9 


130  THE  INSTALLATION  OF  A  PASTOR. 

Feed  the  flock  of  Christ,  taking  the  oversight  thereof,  not  by  con- 
straint, but  willingly;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready  mind; 
not  as  being  lord  over  God's  heritage,  but  being  an  ensample  to 
the  flock.  And  when  the  Chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  thou 
shalt  receive  a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away.  The  Lord 
bless  thee  from  on  high,  and  make  thee  a  blessing  unto  many, 
that  thou  mayest  bring  forth  fruit,  and  that  thy  fruit  may 
remain  unto  eternal  life. 

The  Lord  bless  you,  and  keep  you. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  you,  and  be  gracious 
unto  you. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon,  you,  and  give  you 
peace.    Amen. 


XII.  Gtye  Jttfliallatum  of  a  $a0tor. 


After  the  Sermon,  generally  held  by  the  officiating  Minister,  and-  the  singing  of 

an  appropriate  Hymn,  the  officiating  Minister  and  his  assistants  shall  take  up 

their  position  at  the  altar,  the  Pastor-elect  before  them,  and  on  either  side  of 

him  the  members  of  the  Church  Council. 

The  Officiating  Minister  shall  say: 

Dear  Brother:  Whereas  thou  hast. been  called  as  Pastor  of 
this  Congregation,  and  art  about  to  assume  charge  of  the  flock 
of  Christ  in  this  place,  it  is  fitting  that  thou  shouldst  bear  in 
mind  the  solemn  duties  of  thy  sacred  office,  that  thou  mayest 
fulfil  them  in  such  manner  as  behooves  a  devout  and  zealous 
minister  of  the  Church. 

As  an  ambassador  for  Christ,  thou  art  to  preach  and  teach 
the  pure  doctrine  of  the  divine  Word,  to  administer  the  holy 
Sacraments  according  to  the  institution  and  ordinance  of  Christ, 
to  instruct  the  young  in  the  way  of  salvation,  to  counsel  the  in- 
quiring, to  strengthen  the  weak,  to  seek  the  lost,  and  reclaim 
the  erring,  to  comfort  the  sorrowing,  to  care  for  the"  needy,  to 
visit  the  sick,  to  minister  to  the  dying,  and  ever  to  have  at 
heart,  and  pray  for,  the  spiritual  welfare  of  every  soul  under 
thy   care. 

Thou  art  to  give  thyself  to  the  meditation  and  study  of  the 
Scriptures,  to  administer  thy  office  conformably  to  the  Word  of 
God,  and  to  show  thyself  and  thy  household  a  pattern  to  others 


THE   INSTALLATION   OF  A   PASTOR.  l-'-l 

in  piety  and  godliness,  giving  no  offense  in  anything,  that  the 
ministry  be   not  blamed. 

Thus  says  St.  Paul: 

"This  is  a  true  saying,  If  a-  man  desireth  the  office  of 
a  bishop,  he  desireth  a  good  work.  A  bishop,  then,  must  be 
blameless,  the  husband  of  one  wife,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  be- 
havior, given  to  hospitality,  apt  to  teach,  not  given  to  wine. 
no  striker,  not  greedy  of  filthy  lucre,  but  patient,  not  a  brawler, 
not  covetous,  one  that  ruleth  well  his  own  house,  having  his 
children  in  subjection  with  all  gravity;  not  a  novice,  lest,  being 
puffed  up  with  pride,  he  fall  into  the  condemnation  of  the  devil. 
Moreover,  he  must  have  a  good  report  of  them  which  are  with- 
out, lest  he  fall  into,  reproach  and  the  snare  of  the  devil." 
(1   Tim.  3,  1—7.) 

"Preach  the  Word;  be  instant  in  season,  out  of  season;  re- 
prove, rebuke,  exhort  with  all  long-suffering  and  doctrine.  Watch 
thou  in  all  things,  endure  affliction,  do  the  work  of  an  evan- 
gelist, make  full  proof  of  thy  ministry."    (2  Tim.  4,  2.  5.) 

"Be  thou  an  example  of  the  believers  in  word,  in  conver 
sation,  in  charity,  in  spirit,  in  faith,  in  purity.  Till  I  come, 
give  attendance  to  reading,  to  exhortation,  to  doctrine.  Neglect 
not  the  gift  that  is  in  thee,  which  was  given  thee  by  prophecy, 
with  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  presbytery.  Meditate 
upon  these  things ;  give  thyself  wholly  to  them,  that  thy  profiting 
may  appear  to  all.  Take  heed  unto  thyself  and  unto  the  doc- 
trine ;  continue  in  them ;  for  in  doing  this  thou  shalt  both  save 
thyself,  and  them  that  hear  thee."    (1  Tim.  4,  12—16.) 

I  ask  thee,  therefore,  dear  Brother,  in  the  presence  of  God 
and  this  Congregation: 

Art  thou  willing  and  ready  to  take  upon  thee  the  charge  of 
this  Congregation,  and  to  perform  faithfully  all  the  duties  of 
thy  ministry? 

Answer:    I  am. 

Wilt  thou  preach  and  teach  the  pure  Word  of  God  in  ac- 
cordance with  the  Confessions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  and  adorn  the  doctrine  of  our  Savior  by  a  godly  and 
holy   life? 

Ansiver:    Yes,  with  the  help  of  God. 


132  THE  INSTALLATION  OF  A  PASTOR. 

Then  may   the   Officiating  Minister  say   to   the   Congregation: 

Dearly  Beloved:  Ye  have  heard  the  solemn  promise  given 
by  him  whom  ye  have  called  to  be  your  pastor. 

I  admonish  and  charge  you,  therefore,  on  your  part  to  re- 
ceive him  in  this  character  and  office,  and  to  be  ever  mindful 
of  what  the  Word  of  God  demands  of  you  as  members  of 
his  flock. 

Attend  with  all  diligence  the  preaching  of  the  Word,  re- 
ceiving it,  not  as  the  word  of  man,  but,  as  it  is  in  truth,  the 
Word  of  God. 

Heed  his  admonition,  receiving  with  meekness  the  engrafted 
Word,  which  is  able  to  save  your  souls. 

Aid  him  by  your  influence  in  instructing  the  young,  re- 
membering the  exhortation  to  bring  up  your  children  in  the 
nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 

Honor  and  love  him,  as  St.  Paul  says:  "Know  them  which 
labor  among  you,  and  are  over  you  in  the  Lord,  and  admonish 
you;   and  esteem  them  very  highly  in  love  for  their  work's  sake." 

Pray  for  him  without  ceasing,  that  in  his  labors  and  anxieties 
he  may  retain  a  cheerful  spirit,  and  his  ministry  among  you 
may  be  abundantly  blessed. 

Provide  also  for  his  temporal  wants;  for  the  Lord  says: 
"The  laborer  is  worthy  of  his  hire";  and  St.  Paul  says:  "Let 
him  that  is  taught  in  the  Word  communicate  unto  him  that 
teacheth  in  alL  good  things." 

Finally,  remember  the  words  of  the  Apostle:  "Obey  them 
that  have' the  rule  over  you,  and  submit  yourselves;  for  they 
watch  for  your  souls  as  they  that  must  give  account,  that  they 
may  do  it  with  joy,  and  not  with  grief;  for  that  is  unprofitable 
for  you." 

[I  now  ask  you: 

Are  ye  willing  to  receive  your  Pastor  as  a  minister  of  God, 
and  to  show  towards  him  such  love,  honor,  and  fit  obedience  in 
the  Lord  as  are  due  to  an  overseer  and  guide  placed  over  you 
by  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Chief  Shepherd  and  Bishop 
of  souls? 

Then  shall  the  members  of  the  Church  Council   [and  the  Congregation)   say: 

Yes,  we  are.] 


THE  INSTALLATION  OF  A  PASTOR.  133 

Thi    Paator-tfeci   then   kneels.     The  assisting  Ministers   lay  their  right  hands  on 
Inn  head,  and  the  Officiating  Minister  snys: 

Dear  Brother:  On  the  ground  of  thy  call,  I  now,  in  ac- 
cordance with  the  usages  of  the  Church,  install  thee  as  Pastor 
of  this  Congregation,  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  charging  thee  to  be  diligent  and 
faithful  in  the  performance  of  thy  duties,  as  thou  shalt  give 
account  of  thy  stewardship  in  the  day  of  Christ's  appearing. 

"Xow  the  God  of  peace,  that  brought  again  from  the  dead 
our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  through  the 
blood  of  the  everlasting  covenant,  make  thee  perfect  in  every 
good  work  to  do  His  will,  working  in  thee  that  which  is  pleasing 
in  His  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ,  to  whom  be  glory  forever 
and  ever."    Amen. 

Then   the  assisting  Ministers  may,  in  turn,  say  similar  benedictions: 

(E.  g.,  Josh.  1,  7.  8;  Ps.  20,  1.  2;  Ps.  27,  1.  14,  Ps.  84, 
7.  8;  Is.  52,  7;  Dan.  12,  3;  2  Cor.  2,  14—16;  2  Cor.  4,  6.  7; 
1  Tim.  4,  G.  7;    2  Tim.  1,  13.  14.) 

Then  the  Officiating  Minister,  turning  to  the  neicly  installed  Pastor  and  taking 
his   right   hand,  shall  say: 

Go,  then,  and  feed  the  flock  of  Christ  which  is  entrusted  to 
thee,  taking  the  oversight  thereof,  not  by  constraint,  but  will- 
ingly; not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready  mind;  neither  as 
being  lord  over  God's  heritage,  but  being  an  ensample  to  the 
flock.  And  when  the  Chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  thou  shalt 
receive  a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away.  The  Lord  bless 
thee  from  on  high,  and  make  thee  a  blessing  unto  many,  that 
thou  mayest  bring  forth  fruit,  and  that  thy  fruit  may  remain 
unto  eternal  life.    Amen. 

1. 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  eternal  and  only  Son  of  God,  who 
sittest  at  the  right  hand  of  the  Father,  and  giveet  gifts  unto 
men,  sending  forth  pastors  and  teachers  for  the  work  of  the 
ministry  and  the  building  up  of  Thy  spiritual  body,  the  Church  : 
we  thank  and  praise  Thee  that  Thou  hast  [again]  provided  this 
flock  with  a  faithful  shepherd;  and  we  pray  Thee,  grant  to  both 
pastor  and  people  Thy  heavenly  grace,  that  they  may  do  what 
is  well-pleasing-  in  Thy  sight,  holding  faith  and  a  good  con- 
science, and  finally,  with  all  the  elect,  obtain  everlasting  life. 
Amen. 


134  THE   INSTALLATION  OF  A  PASTOR. 

2. 

Praise  and  adoration  be  unto  Thee,  almighty  and  everlasting 
God,  the  Father  of  mercies,  that  Thou  hast  established  Thy 
Church  on  earth,  that  from  it  should  go  forth  salvation  to  the 
souls  of  men  to  the  end  of  days.  And  as  Thou  hast  sent  another 
laborer  into  this  Thy  harvest-field,  we  beseech  Thee,  mercifully 
replenish  him  with  the  gifts  requisite  for  the  faithful  and  suc- 
cessful fulfilment  of  his  sacred  office.  Keep  him  from  becoming 
an  offense  by  his  own  shortcomings,  from  falling  a  prey  to 
calumny  and  evil  speaking,  and  from  whatever  might  hinder  his 
ministry.  Support  him  with  power  from  on  high,  and  crown 
his  efforts  with  Thy  blessing.  And  when  at  length  his  work  on 
earth  is  done,  may  he  as  a  faithful  servant  enter  into  the  joy  of 
his  Lord.  We  pray  Thee  also  to  bless  this  Congregation,  the 
officers  and  all  the  members.  Preserve  Thine  altar  perpetually 
in  the  midst  of  them,  and  ever  keep  alive  upon  it  Thy  holy  fire. 
May  Thy  Word  and  Sacraments  be  continued  unto  them  in  their 
purity,  and  the  peaceful  kingdom  of  Thy  Son  prosper  among 
them,  that  all  who  worship  Thee  in  this  place  may  in  the  end 
find  their  names  written  in  the  Book  of  Life.  0  Thou  God  of 
peace,  sanctify  us  wholly,  that  our  whole  spirit  and  soul  and 
body  may  be  preserved  blameless  unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

Then   the   Officiating  Minister,   and    the   other   Ministers    with   him,   laving    on 
hands,  shall  say: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who-  trespass  against  us;  And 
lead  us  not  into  temptation;  But  deliver  us  from  evil;  For 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

Then  may  follow  a  Hymn  of  Praise,  or  the  Doxology,  and  the  newly  installed 
Pastor  shall  close  the  service  with  the  Benediction. 


THE   INSTALLATION   OF  A  TEACHER.  1 

XIII.  Slip  Jnatallatum  of  a  (learlirr. 


Dear  Brother:   Evangelical  Lutheran  at  a  regular 

meeting,  asking  for  God's  guidance  and  acting  in  His  fear,  has 
duly  elected  and  called  thee  to  be  a  teacher  in  our  school. 

Whereas,  then,  by  divine  guidance,  thou  hast  recognized  in 
this  call  the  voice  of  God,  and  art  about  to  enter  upon  the  duties 
of  thy  important  office,  for  the  faithful  performance  whereof  thou 
wilt  be  held  accountable  to  God,  I  ask  thee,  in  the  presence  of 
God  and  of  this  Congregation: 

Dost  thou  promise  to  discharge  faithfully  all  the  duties  of 
thy  office,  according  to  the  ability  which  God  giveth? 

Answer:    I  do  so  promise,  with  the  help  of  God. 

Then  the  Minister,  taking  the  Teacher  by  the  hand,  shall  say: 

In  testimony  of  thy  sincere  intent  in  making  this  thy  promise, 
give  me  thy  right  hand. 

Go,  then,  and  faithfully  perform  thy  work  among  the  lambs 
of  Christ,  the  children  of  His  Church,  committed  to  thy  care. 
Assist  me,  the  minister  of  the  Word  and  shepherd  of  the  whole 
flock,  in  feeding  them  with  the  Word  and  the  sound  doctrine. 
Assist  the  parents  in  bringing  up  their  children  in  the  nurture 
and  admonition  of  the  Lord.  Take  heed  that  thou  dost  so,  not 
by  constraint,  but  willingly;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready 
mind;  not  as  being  desirous  of  vainglory,  but  in  simplicity  of 
heart,  seeking  only  the  glory  of  God,  and  being  an  ensample  both 
to  the  children  and  to  the  whole  Congregation.  And  when  the 
Chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  thou  shalt  receive  a  crown  of  glory 
that  fadeth  not  away.  The  Lord  bless  thee  from  on  high,  and 
make  thee  a  blessing  both  to  the  school  and  to  the  Church,  that 
thou  mayest  bring  forth  much  fruit,  and  that  thy  fruit  may 
remain  unto  eternal  life.    Amen. 

Then  may  the  Minister  say  to   the  Congregation: 

Dearly  Beloved :  I  heartily  admonish  you  all  through  Jesus 
Christ,  who  has  graciously  given  this  teacher  to  our  school,  that 
you  would  look  upon  him  and  honor  him  as  one  sent  by  the 
Lord,  faithfully  assist  him  in  the  performance  of  his  duties,  and 
therefore  send  your  children  to  school  with  laudable  regularity. 
teach  them  to  respect  and  obey  their  teacher,  and  diligently  aid 


136  THE  INSTALLATION  OF  A  TEACHER. 

him  in  the  Christian  training  of  the  children.  Do  this  for  the 
sake  of  God,  that  His  name  may  be  glorified  in  our  school  by 
our  children ;  for  the  sake  of .  the  children,  that  through  the 
labors  of  our  teacher  they  may  be  brought  up  in  the  nurture  and 
admonition  of  the  Lord:  to  the  praise  of  the  gracious  God,  to 
your  joy,  and  to  their  own  temporal  and  eternal  welfare. 
Then  may  the  Minister  sap  to  the  children: 

May  Jesus,  your  Good  Shepherd,  give  to  you,  dear  chil- 
dren, pious  and  dutiful  hearts  to  obey  willingly  your  dear  teacher, 
to  profit  diligently  by  his  instructions,  especially  in  the  saving 
Word  of  God,  and  not  to  resist  the  discipline  he  imposes  in 
God's  name,  so  that  your  teacher's  labors  among  you  may  be- 
come an  everlasting  blessing  to  you,  and  the  Good  Shepherd's 
promise  for  His  lambs  be  fulfilled  in  you:  "I  give  unto  them 
eternal  life."    Amen. 

To  the  end  that  the  gracious  God  may  crown  the  labors  of 
this  our  teacher  with   His  blessing, 

Let  us  pray. 

Almighty  God,  Thou  everlasting  Fountain  of  all  wisdom, 
who  hast  established  among  us  a  Christian  school,  and  wouldst 
have  all  pure  arts  and  useful  knowledge  to  be  consecrated  to 
Thy  service,  we  bless  and  magnify  Thy  holy  name  and  give 
thanks  to  Thee  for  Thy  great  goodness.  And  we  beseech  Thee, 
vouchsafe  unto  us  the  continuance  of  Thy  blessing,  that  Thy 
Word  may  dwell  richly  in  us  and  our  children,  and  Thy  name 
be  glorified  among  us.  Grant  unto  this  Thy  servant  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  and  adorn  him  with  wisdom  and  power  from  on  high, 
that  he  may  lead  our  little  ones  to  Thee,  and  in  the  face  of 
numerous  discouragements  wait  faithfully  on  his  arduous  calling. 
Dispose  our  children  to  godliness  and  obedience,  and  let  them  so 
profit  by  instruction  in  Thy  holy  Word  that  they  may  be  pre- 
served from  all  ungodliness,  serve  Thee  all  their  days,  and  finally 
obtain  eternal  life.  Stir  up  the  hearts  of  all  parents  and  mem- 
bers of  this  church  to  regard  their  teacher  as  one  sent  by  Thee, 
to  aid  him  in  the  Christian  training  of  their  children,  and  to 
pray  and  labor  for  the,  welfare  of  our  school.  And  do  Thou 
continue  to  build  Thy  kingdom  both  here  and  elsewhere  to  the 
end  of  days.  Hear  us,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 


THK  INSTALLATION  OF   x  CHURCH   COUNCIL.  137 

XIV.  uJbr  Jnatallatum  of  a  (Uhurrh  (Emmril. 

This  chapter  is  to  be  found  only  in  the  unabridged  edition   of  th 
Sec  pag'ia  S89  to  391. 


XV.  Caging  th?  (Uornrr-^trntr  of  a  Cljurrh. 

When  the  Corner-stone  of  a  church  is   to  be  laid,  an  appropriate  service  shall 

be  held  at   the  place  where  the  edifice  is   to   be   built. 

A  Hymn  shall  be  sung,  and  a  Psalm  (e.  g.,  J6 ;    til;    118)  may  be  said  respon- 

sively,  with   Gloria   Patri. 

Then   shall   the   Minister  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  who  art  always  more  ready 
to  hear  than  we  are  to  pray,  and  art  wont  to  give  more  than 
either  we  desire  or  deserve:  grant  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  the  ful- 
ness of  Thy  mercy.  Prosper  and  bless  the  work  which  we  are 
here  undertaking,  that,  by  Thy  favor,  it  may  promote  Thy  glory 
and  the  salvation  of  many  souls ;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

Then  shall  be  read  the  Lesson,  e.g.,  Gen.  28,  10 — 22;    Ps.8i;    87;    122;    Matt.  16, 

IS— 19;    Eph.2,19—22;    lCor.3,«—li. 

Then  may  be  sung  a   Hymn. 

If   there  be  an   Address,  it  shall ,  now   be  made. 

Then  may  be  sung  another  Hymn. 

A  list  of  the  contents  of  the  box  which  is  to  be  deposited  in  the  corner-stone 

is  here  read,  and  the  box  placed  in  the  stone.     The  contents  of  the  box  may 

embrace: 
The  constitution  and  history  of  the  Congregation,  a  Catechism,  a  Hymn-book, 
a  list  containing  the  names  of  the  church  officers,  the  pastor,  the  teacher,  the 
building  committee,  the  builder,  etc.;  moreover,  Synodical  reports  and  other 
Church  publications;  also  the  names  of  the  President,  the  Governor  of  the 
State,  the  Mayor  of  the  city  at   the  time;    and,  lastly,  political  papers   of  the 

city  or  State,  etc. 

Then,   the  stone  having  been  adjusted   by    the   builder,   the   Minister,    taking   in 

hand   a   hammer   or   trowel,  strikes   the  stone   three   times   in    the   name   of   the 

Trinity,   saying: 

Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made  heaven 
and  earth. 

Except  the  Lord  build  the  house,  they  labor  in  vain  that 
build   it. 


138  LAYING  THE  CORNER-STONE  OF  A  CHURCH. 

I  lay  the  corner-stone  of  an  edifice  to  be  here  erected  under 

the  name  of Church,  and  devoted  to  the  worship  of  the  one 

and  only  living  and  true  God,  the  proclamation  of  His  Gospel, 
and  the  ministry  of  His  holy  Sacraments  in  the  name  *  of  the 
Father,  *  and  of  the  Son,  *  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

The  stone  which  the  builders  rejected  is  become  the  head 
of  the  corner. 

Other  foundation  can  no  man  lay  than  that  is  laid,  which 
is  Jesus  Christ,  true  God  and  man,  blessed  forever. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to  the  Holy 
Ghost:  as  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be, 
world  without  end.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

Let  us  now  unite  in  the  confession  of  our  holy  Chris- 
tian faith: 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth. 

And  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son,  our  Lord;  Who  was 
conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost ;  Born  of  the  Virgin  Mary ;  Suf- 
fered under  Pontius  Pilate;  Was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried; 
He  descended  into  hell ;  The  third  day  He  rose  again  from  the 
dead;  He  ascended  into  heaven;  And  sitteth  on  the  right  hand 
of  God  the  Father  Almighty;  From  thence  He  shall  come  to 
judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 

I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost;  The  holy  Christian  Church, 
the  communion  of  saints;  The  forgiveness  of  sins;  The  resur- 
rection of  the  body ;    And  the  life  everlasting.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  whom 
the  heavens  cannot  contain,  but  whose  will  it  is  to  have  a  house 
upon  earth  wherein  prayer  and  praise  may  be  continually  offered 
to  Thy  name,  let  Thine  eyes,  we  pray  Thee,  be  toward  this 
place,  where  we  purpose  to  build  a  house  of  worship  to  the  glory 
of  Thy  holy  name  and  for  the  salvation  of  souls  purchased  by 
the  blood  of  Thine  only-begotten  Son.  Bless  and  prosper,  we 
beseech  Thee,  the  work  which  we  here  begin  in  Thy  name,  that 
in  this  place  not  only  an  earthly  house  may  be  erected  unto 
Thee,   but  also   a   spiritual   temple,   a   congregation   of  true   be- 


LAYING   THE   CORNER-STONE  OF   A  CHURCH.  139 

who,  knowing  and  worshiping  Thee,  shall  do  Thy  will, 
promote  Thy  glory,  and  extend  Thy  kingdom;  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Mediator  and  Redeemer.    Amen. 

2. 
Blessed  be  Thy  name,  0  Lord,  that  it  hath  pleased  Thee 
to  put  it  into  the  hearts  of  Thy  servants  to  begin  the  erection 
of  a  building,  in  which  Thy  holy  name  is  to  be  worshiped,  the 
Word  of  Reconciliation  is  to  be  proclaimed,  and  the  Sacraments 
are  to  be  administered.  Prosper  Thou  them,  0  God,  in  this 
their  undertaking.  Give  to  the  members  of  this  Congregation 
unity  of  counsel,  purity  of  intention,  and  a  supreme  purpose 
to  advance  Thy  glory  in  promoting  the  extension  and  interests 
of  Thy  holy  Church,  appointed  for  the  salvation  of  mankind. 
Guard  by  Thy  providence  everything  pertaining  to  the  building, 
which  is  now  begun  in  Thy  fear  and  in  reliance  on  Thy  blessing, 
that  it  may  be  successfully  completed.  Direct  the  skill  and 
animate  the  industry  of  the  superintendents  and  workmen,  and 
shield  them  from  all  accidents  and  dangers.  Grant  also  that  by 
the  influences  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit  we,  with  all  Thy  people,  as 
lively  stones,  may  be  built  up  into  a  spiritual  house  and  an 
abiding  temple  of  Thy  glory,  and  be  prepared  for  that  eternal 
city  which  hath  foundations,  whose  builder  and  maker  Thou  art. 
Now  unto  Thee,  who  art  able  to  do  exceeding  abundantly  above 
all  that  we  ask  or  think,  be  glory  in  the  Church  by  Christ  Jesus 
throughout  all  ages,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

Then  shall  all  nay   together: 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven;  Hallowed  be  Thy  name; 
Thy  kingdom  come ;  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in 
heaven ;  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread ;  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us ;  And 
Tead  us  not  into  temptation ;  But  deliver  us  from  evil ;  For 
Thine"  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever 
and  ever.    Amen. 

Then  may  be  sung  a  Hymn. 
Then  shall  the  Minister  pronounce  the  Benediction. 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious 
unto  thee. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,  and  give 
thee  peace.    Amen. 


140  THE  DEDICATION  OP  A  CHURCH. 

XVI.  aty*  Stratum  of  a  Olljurrij. 


When  a  church  is  to  be  dedicated,  the  Ministers  present,  with  the  Congregation, 
may  convene  for  a  valedictory  service,  consisting  of  the  singing  of  a  Hymn 
and  an  Address,  at  the  former  place  of  worship  or  some  other  suitable  place. 

Then  the  Minister,  with  the  Congregation,  may  go  in  procession  to   the  door 
of   the  church,   bearing    the  Bible   and   sacred   vessels,   and   singina   a    proces- 
sional Hymn,. 

Then  the  Minister  may  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

0  eternal  God,  who  dwellest  in  the  high  and  holy  place 
and  with  him  also  that  is  of  a  contrite  and  humble  spirit,  we 
beseech  Thee,  graciously  look  upon  us  and  let  us  enter  this 
Thy  house  with  Thy  blessing,  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Son, 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

Then  shall  the  keys  be  handed  to  the  Minister  by  the  builder  or  by  one  of  the 
trustees  of  the  church,  and  the  Minister  shall  say: 

Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made  heaven 
and  earth. 

Whereas,  by  the  grace  of  God,  we  are  permitted  this  day 
to  dedicate  this  house  of  God,  I  herewith  open  the  gates  of 
this  house  for  the  preaching  of  the  saving  Word  of  God  in 
accordance  with  the  Confessions  of  our  Church,  for  the  adminis- 
tration and  use  of  the  holy  Sacraments  according  to  the  insti- 
tution of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  for  offering  to  God's  glo- 
rious Majesty  the  sacrifice  of  prayer  and  thanksgiving:  in  the 
name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 
Amen. 

Then,  the  door  having  been  unlocked  by  the  Minister  and  opened  by  a  member 

of   the  Church   Council,  may   be  said  responsively  Ps.  2$,  100,  or  122;    or   the 

Minister  may  say: 

Lift  up  your  heads,  0  ye  gates;  and  be  ye  lifted  up,  ye 
everlasting  doors ;  and  the  King  of  glory  shall  come  in.  Enter 
into  His  gates  with  thanksgiving,  and  into  His  courts  with 
praise.  Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to  -the 
Holy  Ghost:  as  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall 
be,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

The  Minister,  with  the  Congregation,  shall  then  move  slowly  into   the  church. 

Having  come  to  the  chancel,  the  Ministers  and  members  of  the  Church  Council 

shall  enter  it,  and  deposit  the  Bible  and  sacred  vessels  in  their  places. 

Then  shall  a  Hymn  be  sung. 


THK   DEMCATKW    Of  A  CHURCH.  Ill 

Then    shall    the   Minister   say: 

Albeit  the  Most  High  dweUeth  not  in  temples  made  with 
hands,  but  with  His  glory  doth  fill  the  heavens  and  the  earth, 
He  hath  yet  been  pleased  to  reveal  His  gracious  presence,  wher- 
ever His  holy  Word  and  Sacraments  are  in  use.  For  thus  He 
spake  through  Moses  (Ex.  20,  24):  "In  all  places  where  I  re- 
cord My  name  I  will  come  unto  thee,  and  I  will  bless  thee"; 
and,  again,  through  Christ,  His  Son  (Matt.  18,  20)  :  "Where 
two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  My  name,  there  am  I  in 
the  midst  of  them."  Whereas,  then,  this  house  hath  been  built 
for  the  manifestation  of  the  grace  of  God  in  Word  and  Sac- 
rament, and  we  are  for  the  first  time  gathered  together  here  in 
His  name,  let  us,  therefore,  hear  the  Word  of  the  Lord,  and 
by  our  prayer  commend  this  place  to  Him,  knowing  that  all 
things  are  sanctified  by  the  Word  of  God  and  prayer. 

Then    the  following  or  other  Scripture-lessons  shall  be  read:    1   Kings   8,  1—13. 

£2—30;    1  Chron.  30, 1—20 ;    Ps.8i;    72;    128;    158;    Heb.l0,19—i5. 

Then    shall    the    Minister   say: 

Let  us  pra\\ 

1. 

0  almighty,  everlasting  God,  who  through  Thy  Son,  the 
chief  Corner-stone,  dost  join  together  the  believers  into  one 
edifice,  and  out  of  lively  stones  dost  build  for  Thyself  a  spiritual 
temple :  look  with  favor  also  upon  this  house,  which  we  have 
built  for  Thy  glory,  to  be  a  memorial  to  Thy  name,  a  dwelling- 
place  for  Thine  honor,  and  a  house  of  prayer  for  Thy  people. 
Accept  it  as  Thine  own  forthwith,  0  Lord,  and  visit  it  with 
Thy  most  holy  presence,  to  the  end  that  our*  going  in  and  our 
coming  out  may  be  blessed  from  this  time  forth  even  forever- 
more;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

2. 
0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Thou  great  Shepherd  and  Bishop  of 
souls,  we  pray  Thee  to  take  this  house  o#f  worship  and  this  con- 
gregation into  Thy  charge.  Guard  and  defend  this  Thy  flock, 
and  cause  their  number  to  be  daily  increased.  Here,  we  pray 
Thee,  cause  Thy  Gospel-light  to  shine.  Here  bless  Thy  flock 
evermore  with  faithful  shepherds,  and  clothe  Thy  ministers  with 
righteousness.  Here  let  the  way  of  salvation  be  truly  set  forth, 
and  Thy  Holy  Spirit  attend  Thy  Word,  to  graft  it  inwardly 
in  the  hearts  of  all  who  hear*  it,  that  they  may  know  Thee,  the 


142  THE  DEDICATION  OF  A  SCHOOL. 

only  true  and  living  God,  and  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  "whom 
Thou  hast  sent  as  the  Savior  of  the  world,  and  worship  Thee 
in  spirit  and  in  truth.  Cause  the  message  of  peace  to  go  forth 
from  this  place  even  unto  the  distant  nations  and  to  the  remote 
corners  of  the  earth,  that  many  may  be  called  from  the  way  of 
destruction,  and  walk  in  the  light  of  Thy  blessed  countenance. 
May  Thy  Holy  Spirit  always  accompany  the  administration  of 
Thy  holy  Sacraments  in  this  place,  and  with  His  saving  in- 
fluence make  them  effectual  means  of  grace  to  Thy  people.  May 
the  rising  generation  here  be  faithfully  instructed  in  sound  doc- 
trine, that  they  may  believe  in  Thee  and  live  to  Thy  praise. 
Graciously  hear  the  prayers  which  Thy  children  shall  offer  unto 
Thee  in  this  place.  Bless  the  marriages  which  shall  here  be 
solemnized.  All  that  weep  in  affliction  and  bereavement  comfort 
Thou  with  Thy  heavenly  peace.  Let  the  blessing  of  harmony  and 
peace  forever  rest  upon  this  house.  And  finally  bring  us,  and  all 
who  in  time  to  come  worship  in  this  place,  together  with  all  Thy 
redeemed,  to  that  city  of  God  wherein  there  is  no  temple,  and 
of  which  the  Lamb  is  the  light,  there  to  unite  in  Thy  praise  with 
all  the  angels  and  the  saints;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

When  a  Schoolhouse  is  to  be  dedicated,  a  brief  service  may  be  held  at  the 
proceed   according   to    the  regular   Order   of   Service,   with    Holy    Communion. 


XVII.  atye  irdtration  of  a  €>rtjooL 

XVIII.  etye  leotratiott  of  an  QDroan, 
XIX.  GUjF-lfotraium  of  a  Irll. 

XX.  Stye  Stratum  of  a  Ittrial  (Sromtd. 
XXI.  Otyr  irotratton  of  a  $ arBOttao,?. 


THE   DEDICATION   OF   h   PABfSH-H  143 

XXII.  Shp  Dritratum  of  a  ftartah-iiflita?. 
XXIII.  Qlijr  SrMratum  af  a  Suirllmn,. 

These  chapter*  art  to  be  found  <>nl</  in  the  unabridged  edition  of  this  book. 
•v..   pages   196  to  •'/'? 


XXIV.  (Hmujrpgatuinal  fUrrting. 

After  the  singing  of  a  Hymn,  the  Minister  may  say: 
Our   help   is   in   the   name  of   the   Lord,   who   made   heaven 
and  earth.    Amen. 

Then  may  the  Minister  say. 

The  Lord   be  with  you. 

The  Congregation  shall  anmco r; 

And   with   thy  spirit. 

Then  sitatl  tin    Minister  say: 

Let  us  pray. 

1. 

Almighty  God  and  Lord,  our  Father  in  Christ  Jesus,  who 
hast  called  us  to  labor  in  Thy  vineyard,  and  without  whom  we 
can  do  nothing:  we  heartily  beseech  Thee,  vouchsafe  unto  us 
Thy  gracious  presence  at  this  meeting.  Enlighten  ami  guide  us 
h\  Thy  Word,  that,  in  all  the  matters  upon  which  we  deliberate, 
we  may  know  what  will  promote  the  best  interests  of  Thy  Church 
and  redound  to  Thy  praise.  And  do  Thou  bestow  Thy  blessing 
upon  the  measures  that  we  resolve  upon  in  Thy  fear.  Let  Thy 
Holy  Spirit  govern  and  direct  our  hearts,  and  let  the  peace  of 
Thy  dear  Son  dwell  in  us,  that  as  brethren  we  may  consult 
peaceably  together,  and  as  members  of  the  One  Head  be  kindly 
affectioned  one  to  another  with  brotherly  love,  in  honor  preferring 
one  another,  to  the  end  that  all  we  say  or  do  may  please  Thee; 
through   Jesus  Christ,  Thy   dear   Son,  our  Lord.    Amen. 


0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  we  are  gathered  together  in  Thy  name 
to  consult  together  in  peace  and  amity  on  important  matters  re- 
lating  to  the  promotion   of   Thy  kingdom.     We.  beseech    Thee, 


144  CONGREGATIONAL    MEETING. 

therefore,  be  in  the  midst  of  us,  according  to  Thy  promise,  and 
grant  that  we  may  earnestly  desire,  wisely  search  out,  truly  per- 
ceive, and  perfectly  fulfil  those  things  which  are  well-pleasing  in 
Thy  sight,  to  the  praise  and  glory  of  Thy  name.    Amen. 

3. 
Direct  us,  0  Lord,  in  all  our  doings  with  Thy  most  gra- 
cious favor,  and  further  us  with  Thy  continual  help,  that,  in 
all  our  works  begun,  continued,  and  ended  in  Thee,  we  may  glo- 
rify Thy  holy  name,  and  finally,  by  Thy  mercy,  obtain  ever- 
lasting life;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

4. 
God  of  all  truth  and  grace,  who  hast  caused  the  Sun  of 
Eighteousness  to  rise  upon  a  dark  and  benighted  world,  be  pleased 
graciously  so  to  illumine  the  souls  of  Thy  people  with  the  beams^ 
of  heavenly  wisdom  that  they  may  continually  walk  in  Thy  light 
and  know  both  to  avoid  evil  and  to  follow  after  that  which  is 
good;    through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 

5. 

Almighty  God,  direct  and  govern  us  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
guiding  us  both  to  devise  and  do  those  things  which  shall  bf 
for  the  glory  of  Thy  name   and  the  welfare  of  Thy   Church 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.    Amen. 
6. 

0  Lord,  who  hast  graciously  given  us  Thy  Word  as  a  ligh 
unto  our  path,  keep  us  from  relying,  in  things  spiritual,  on  th 
judgment  of  our  sin-blinded  reason  or  the  opinions  of  worldly 
minded  men;  but  let  us  be  guided  solely  by  Thy  infallible  Wore1 
that,  turning  aside  neither  to  the  right  hand  nor  to  the  left 
we  may  escape  the  byways  of  error  that  imperil  the  soul,  an 
ever  do  that  which  pleaseth  Thee  and  maketh  for  our  salvatioi 
until,  having  finished  our  earthly  course,  we  shall  enter  into  eve 
lasting  communion  with  Thee;  through  Jesus  Christ,  Thy  Soi 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

Then  may  one  of  the  Lessons  here  given  be  read:    Ps.  119,12— 2i;    $9,1—18; 

The  meeting  man  oe  closed  by  the  singing  of  a  Hymn,  followed  by  the  Lord 
Prayer  and   the  Benediction. 


L 


Date  Due 

,<■         -  '*.. 

$ 

PRINTED 

IN  U.  S.  A. 

